This authoritative new work is probably the widest-ranging reference on feminism ever to be published in paperback. Approachable for general readers as well as for students in women's studies-related courses at all levels, this invaluable guide follows the unique Critical Dictionary format in combining over a dozen in-depth background chapters with more than 400 A-Z dictionary entries. The background chapters are written by major voices in the field of feminist studies, and include thorough coverage of the history of feminism, as well as extensive discussions of topics such as Post-Feminism, Men in Feminism, Feminism and New Technologies, Feminism and Philosophy, and much more. The dictionary entries cover the major individuals and issues essential to an understanding both of feminism's roots and of the trends that are shaping its future. Readers will find entries on people like Aphra Behn, Simone de Beauvoir, Princess Diana, Courtney Love and Robert Bly, and on subjects such as Afro-American feminism, cosmetic surgery, the "new man", prostitution, reproductive technologies, "slasher" films, and much more.