Motherhood and modernity

This book takes a central topic in women's studies and sociology of the family and presents an innovative analysis linking motherhood to broader sociological debates on modernity, rationality and individuation. It has many strengths, including a well handled mix of theoretical and ethnographic material, a focused review of contemporary discussions of rationality and the self, an excellent review of the literature on mothering and morality, and perhaps most importantly, an insightful and illuminating central hypothesis which will promote lively debate. Current models of mothering are based on the assumption that infants have biologically determined 'needs' that mothers learn to recognize and meet in socially approved ways. Christine Everingham develops an alternative model of nurturing that locates mothers as subjects, actively constructing the perspective of their child while asserting their own needs and interests in a particular socio-cultural context. This powerful book extends contemporary scholarly debates on mothering and modernity and is a valuable resource for teaching in women's studes and sociology.