First published in 1989, Staking a Claim brings feminist experience and social theory together to produce a systematic view of the State as an agent in sexual politics, thereby placing in question the nature of the State itself. The book approaches this task at two levels: an argument about the theory of the State and the social analysis of gender; and a set of case studies-childcare, equal employment opportunities, sexual violence-on the interplay between feminism and State structure in Australia during a period of 15 years.

In drawing on the experience of feminist demands on the State, Staking a Claim reveals how the State is constituted by gender relations and shaped by the vicissitudes of sexual politics. It will be a beneficial read for students and researchers of sociology.

Suzanne Franzway is Emeritus Professor of Sociology and Gender Studies at the University of South Australia. Her work is motivated by the puzzles and passions of the politics of everyday life and social justice.

Dianne Court, feminist activist, unionist and teacher, died before she was able to complete a major project in the relationship between feminist theory, the women's movement and the State.

R.W. Connell is Professor Emerita at the University of Sydney, and a Life Member of the National Tertiary Education Union. She is best known internationally for studies on masculinity. She was one of the founders of this research field.