Description:
This book presents an innovative exploration of the rise of political forces that have coalesced around the anti-gender movement, shaping strategies that advocate novel intersections of religion, politicization of gender and sexuality, and radical and populist rejuvenation of conservative ideologies.
Review Quotes:
"In this brilliant, timely, and accurately documented book, Massimo Prearo introduces readers in the meanders of Italy's anti-gender movement, unveiling the intense ties forged between far-right populist parties and anti-gender political leaders from the movement at different levels of government who become entrepreneurs of the cause against gender equality and LGBT rights. The compelling argument of a leading authority in the field is that this neo-Catholic movement, while having ecclesiastical connections, develops a secularised mobilization discourse that allows anti-gender actors to occupy a broader discursive space. A must-read for scholars in political science, sociology, and gender studies!"
Emanuela Lombardo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Spain
"Italy is an essential case study to understand anti-gender campaigns. Home to the Roman Catholic Church, it has seen the development of a vibrant social movement, and rising interest from political and state actors. Massimo Prearo's book is definitely a must-read. It offers a careful investigation into the dynamics within Catholic communities mobilized against "gender ideology" in Italy and brings key insights into the complex relations between religion and politics within social movements today."
David Paternotte, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Belgium
"Groundbreaking research and an innovative thesis... Definitely, Massimo Prearo's book sets the start of a new stage in the research on populism, anti-gender movements, and religion."
Luca Ozzano, University of Turin, Italy