Always Ready: Bodily impact of militarization on Syrian women activists.

Abstract

Feminist research has revealed a significant relationship between militarization and patriarchy. This thesis takes that research forward through a gender analysis of the bodily impact of militarization on Syrian women activists. The thesis identifies and interrogates the gendered underpinnings of militarism. In doing so, it examines the contributions of Syrian women activists to our understanding of militarism and gender through a standpoint methodology. This thesis examines the manifestations of militarization at the ideological and material level in peace and war time, uncovers the assumptions about gender (and ethnicity) that shape dominant perceptions of war and militarism. Finally, the thesis illustrates how militarization affects women’s body and emotions, gender identity and psychosocial issues.