Đermana Kurić, an independent researcher and PhD student at the University of Sarajevo, delves into the key aspects of the book “Feminism and Religion in the 21st Century,” which emphasizes “technology, dialogue, and expanding borders.” Originally published on the volunteer blog “Feminism and Religion,” this collection comprises 16 blog posts first featured in the Women’s Studies within the Religion Program at Claremont Graduate University in California, USA. Đermana Kurić’s review has been published in the social affairs journal called “Pregled.”
The book, initially released in English in 2016, is now available to readers in Bosnian, thanks to the excellent translation by MA Aida Spahić, published by the TPO Foundation in Sarajevo in 2022. The authors, mostly professors or doctoral students from American universities, present their analyses and experiences with a strong interest in connecting religion and feminism. Organized into three major subtitles, the book explores various topics, including expanding borders through social media, alternative feminist communities, and embodiment and technology. The authors emphasize that the book serves a dual purpose – providing space for authors to understand and articulate their ideas while serving research and education.
A particular focus is placed on the transformative effects of communication technologies, the internet, blogs, and social media within religious discourses. The authors explore the digital world and online spaces as more accessible to women, opening up opportunities for greater engagement and access to information. The book’s relevance has been especially highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, further confirming the importance of online spaces in supporting women. The book contributes to breaking the silence of many women, offering a space for dialogue and support, particularly in the context of religious hierarchies that traditionally have not allowed room for critical thinking.
In conclusion, this book represents a significant contribution to the discussion on the intersection of feminism and religion in the 21st century, exploring new perspectives and opening space for crucial dialogue among different communities. The book is available in PDF format.
You can read the original review at the link.
