Collapse Feminism: The Online Battle for Feminism's Future

With a title like that you wouldn't necessarily expect it but this book is a great introduction to feminist thought, especially if you're a little uncomfortable with the label of feminist or if your interests are firmly in the here and now.

I found this book to be great in regard of its portrayal of the current states of affairs and as a reminder to think beyond the notion of “everything is f*cked” which is hard, but not impossible, to avoid right now. The tone also avoided the austere seriousness of older feminist work and the tendency to get overly jargony.

I was particularly impressed by how Cappelle understood the notion of a middle class as a something that prevents and/or dissuades solidarity between workers and with her thinking regarding aesthetic.

I have to admit that I was entirely unfamiliar with Cappelle's work before requesting an ARC of this book upon an insomnia fueled book acquiring spree I have since indulged in a few of her videos which are as easy to listen/watch to as this book was to read. While very enjoyable I find both lacked a little teeth, a sacrifice to being more approachable and “reasonable” sounding I guess. I also found the idea of the internet as a space of experimentation and especially the part about how in some instance it (through VR chat) can be escape from the panopticon to be perhaps a little naive.

Many thanks to Repeater Books and NetGalley for providing me an eARC for review consideration.

I learned about this author from her YouTube channel, and although I don't agree with everything she supports, I found this book to be quite insightful. It offers a good understanding of the current scenario regarding online attacks on feminism and feminists, as well as why feminism remains essential despite claims that the West is a “women's utopia” and that feminism is outdated or dead. Additionally, the book discusses the new pros and cons women are facing in the age of technology.