Author ORCID Identifier

0000-0001-6376-6132

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2002

Keywords

Intersectionality literature, Equality doctrines, Race, Gender, Sexuality, Privilege, Disempowerment

Abstract

This Article examines the work of the new complexity or multidimensionality scholars. Most of these scholars are "race-sexuality-gender­class" critics - or scholars whose research introduces sexuality and "queer" theories to the race, gender, and class project initiated by intersectional scholars. This Article seeks to identify concrete points of intervention for multidimensional theorizing. Part II offers an "intellectual history" of the new complexity theories. This section explores the distinctions and similarities among intersectionality literature and the recent contributions of authors in the multidimensionality school. Parts III considers some of the doctrinal implications of new complexity theory and concludes that this work is of great importance for refining and augmenting equality doctrines and for developing more responsive antisubordination theories. The goal of this Article is not to "trash," marginalize or even necessarily displace intersectionality. Instead, it seeks to demonstrate why the compelling project started by intersectionality - to expound the complexity of identity and subordination - requires more elaboration and development, and why the limitations of intersectional analysis render it inadequate in certain contexts. In so doing, critiques of multidimensionality's shortcomings are both invited and welcomed.

First Page

431

Publication Title

University of Missouri-Kansas City Law Review

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