An attempt to bring feminist experience and social theory together to produce a systematic view of the state as an agent in sexual politics. The book questions the nature of the state itself, and the ways in which it is constituted by gender relations and shaped by changing sexual politics. Among the topics covered are the nature of citizenship, the structure of patriarchy, sexual violence, welfare institutions, electoral politics and trade unions. The particular policy issues discussed are welfare policies, rape (...) reform law, housing policy and equal employment opportunities. -- Publisher description. (shrink)