The redistribution-recognition tension in social policies: notes and reflections from feminist political theory

Abstract

In this work, we make a brief overview of the redistribution-recognition dilemma from the contemporary political theory and philosophy, with special attention to the perspective of the feminist Nancy Fraser. The author understands that justice requires the articulation between redistribution and recognition, since in isolation both dimensions are insufficient, she considers that to think of a dichotomy is to sustain a false antithesis that blurs all possibility of understanding and transforming the reality. We start by understanding that the gender dimension places us in front of the tension that exists between recognition and redistribution. This highlights the urgent need to articulate social equality with the recognition of the difference to guarantee the construction of a just and equitable society. Considering this dilemma, we present the development of our incipient analysis of two social policies that have significantly marked the last years in Argentina: the AUH and “Ellas Hacen” (modified by the previous administration). In our opinion, both experiences provide interesting data that reflect on the urgency of mainstreaming the intersectional perspective of gender in state policies.