Gender as a system of power and identity performativity in the epistemological context of Cultural Studies

Abstract

This essay aims to demonstrate the place of Gender Studies within Cultural Studies, reflecting on its epistemological evolution. In addition to recognizing the benefits of Cultural Studies’ multidisciplinary context, this paper identifies key concepts ­ power and identity ­ closely linked to gender and its study. The concept of power ­ combined with discursive practices involving deep ideological/hegemonic moments, but also moments of resistance ­ is fundamental in understanding gender. Accordingly, gender is closely linked with the concept of identity, which involved in power relations, now follows the path of performativity.