In this groundbreaking work two world-renowned scholars argue that ecological destruction and
industrial catastrophes constitute a direct threat to everyday life the maintenance of which
has been made the particular responsibility of women. In both industrialized societies and the
developing countries the new wars the world is experiencing violent ethnic chauvinisms and
the malfunctioning of the economy also pose urgent questions for ecofeminists. Is there a
relationship between patriarchal oppression and the destruction of nature in the name of profit
and progress? How can women counter the violence inherent in these processes? Should they look
to a link between the women's movement and other social movements? Maria Mies and Vandana Shiva
offer a thought-provoking analysis of these and many other issues from a unique North-South
perspective. They critique prevailing economic theories conventional concepts of women's
emancipation the myth of 'catching up' development the philosophical foundations of modern
science and technology and the omission of ethics when discussing so many questions including
advances in reproductive technology and biotechnology. In constructing their own ecofeminist
epistemology and methodology these two internationally respected feminist environmental
activists look to the potential of movements advocating consumer liberation and subsistence
production sustainability and regeneration. They argue for an acceptance of limits and
reciprocity and a rejection of exploitation the endless commoditization of needs and
violence.
