Who's Afraid of Gender?

An essential, timely intervention by Judith Butler, Who's Afraid of Gender? examines how a fear of gender fuels reactionary politics around the world. Butler argues that “anti-gender” movements cast gender as a dangerous threat to families, culture and even humanity itself, and shows how this phantasm supports authoritarian regimes, xenophobic panics and attempts to overturn reproductive justice and LGBTQ+ rights. The book analyzes how these narratives intersect with critical race theory misunderstandings, migration fears, and the broader push to undermine equality. Written in a clear, rigorous voice, it invites readers to imagine new possibilities for freedom and solidarity and to build broad coalitions in the struggle for justice.

Butler’s analysis is grounded in contemporary politics yet remains hopeful and resonant beyond a single moment. The work invites scholars, activists and readers to confront the threats posed by anti-gender rhetoric and to envision inclusive futures where equality for trans and queer people, and protections against violence, are central.

Features

• Explores anti-gender ideology movements worldwide
• Shows how gender is used to justify oppression
• Connects gender politics to race, migration panics
• Urges broad coalitions for equality and justice
• Offers a hopeful, timely, timeless perspective
• 320-page paperback, first edition, Penguin UK