ABSTRACT
In this chapter I attempt to establish the validity of the emerging field of men’s studies, primarily by articulating its distinctive contributions to the ongoing feminist
reconstruction of knowledge. I contend that men’s studies perspectives are essential to, not merely compatible with, the academic and political projects initiated by women’s studies two decades ago. In the course of this discussion, I propose a
general theory of men’s studies as an academic field, analyze some illustrative examples of men’s studies research, and contrast various political perspectives on men’s studies.
