Helen Charman

Helen Charman, a Fellow at Cambridge and author of "Mother State," delves into how motherhood intertwines with political history and activism. Caitlin Killian, a sociology professor, discusses the increasing pressures on mothers and the unfair standards applied compared to fathers. They explore the evolution of motherhood, the criminalization of mothers’ actions, and advocate for rebalancing parental responsibilities. The conversation sheds light on the challenges and transformations that shape maternal identities in today's society.

Helen Charman, historian of motherhood; Beth Mallory, linguist of pregnancy language; Corinne Low, economist of reproductive capital; Patrick Foulis, economic journalist; John Callanan, philosopher on Mandeville. They discuss meanings of productivity, invisible domestic labour, how childbirth language shapes care, Mandeville’s influence on economic thought, AI’s promise, and debates over valuing home production.

Helen Charman, a Fellow at Clare College, University of Cambridge, discusses the multifaceted politics of motherhood. She explores how figures like Margaret Thatcher have influenced narratives around women's roles. The conversation dives into the portrayal of motherhood in pop culture, notably through 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer.' Shifting perceptions of single mothers highlight societal fears and the need for responsive reproductive healthcare. Charman critically examines the legacy of Thatcherism on female leadership and the complexities of care within feminist discourse.