A contemporary reflection on feminist criminology: whose side are we on?

This chapter critically considers the ways in which the changing values of feminism have impacted upon its contribution to criminology. Becker’s question about the taking of sides in research is explored through feminist concerns about the value bases which underpin research and research as a practice of power. The historical impact of values within feminist criminology is tracked to examine five value-related tensions currently facing the discipline; the aims of feminist criminology, competition in the underlying values of feminism and criminology, whether a ‘feminist criminology’ is achievable, the potential preference for ’gender-aware criminologies’ or gender neutral theories of crime and the extent to which feminist criminology should include male lawbreaking. These tensions are discussed in relation to current debates concerning intersectionality, which approach, the authors argue, holds strong potential as a theoretical resource for the future development of a feminist criminology.