Introduction

This chapter introduces the main enquiries of the book. It suggests that the shortcomings of social theory prevent feminist strategies from initiating transformative changes and achieving permanent gains. Briefly engaging with two clusters of work, gender and development, the chapter highlights the ways in which this book goes beyond the existing theoretical shortcomings. As well as outlining the key features of the proposed conceptual framework, it explains the significance of the case of Turkey in revealing some of the key dynamics of social change in the global South. The chapter also provides a detailed plan of the book.