BELL HOOKS’ CONCEPTUALIZATION OF INTERSECTIONALITY AND THE PROBLEM OF GENDER RELATION IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This research work critically examines Bell Hooks' concept of intersectionality and its application in understanding the complex landscape of gender relations in Nigeria. By employing a hermeneutical approach which has to do with detailed interpretation of facts, this study investigates the interplay between various social identities, such as gender, class, ethnicity, and religion, and their cumulative impact on the lived experiences of Nigerian men and women. Through an extensive review of existing literature, supplemented by qualitative interviews and case studies, the research uncovers a range of interconnected problems. These include deeply entrenched patriarchal norms that perpetuate gender inequalities, limited access to quality education and healthcare, disproportionate rates of violence against women, and unequal representation in political and economic spheres. The intersectional analysis reveals how these challenges are not isolated, but rather interwoven, resulting in compounded disadvantages for certain groups of men and women. Furthermore, the study elucidates the ways in which colonial history, globalization, and modernization have influenced and shaped gender dynamics in Nigeria. By contextualizing these issues within a broader historical and sociopolitical framework, the paper underscores the need to address not only individual facets of discrimination but also the overarching systems that sustain gender-based disparities. In light of the findings, the paper advocates for multifaceted resolutions. These include policy recommendations to dismantle discriminatory practices, promote men and women's empowerment through targeted education and skills training, establish comprehensive support systems for survivors of gender-based violence, and enhance equal participation in decisionmaking processes. It must be noted that Gloria Jean Watkins took the name of her grandmother Bell Hooks (as will be seen in this work) which she actually wish to be spelt and preferred to be written as bell hooks’ in line with her feminist ideology expressing, however, what she strongly thinks as part of feminist movement. For the sake of and respect for English language rules, I decided to use the name Bell Hooks for bell hooks’ in this work.