Fix the System, Not the Women
| Company type | Publication |
|---|---|
| Industry | Publishing |
| Founded | 2022 |
| Founder | Laura Bates |
| Products | Book |
Fix the System, Not the Women is a 2022 publication authored by British feminist activist and writer Laura Bates. This work investigates persistent gender inequality within five major sectors—education, politics, media, law enforcement, and the criminal justice system—and promotes comprehensive institutional reforms instead of placing the onus on women to conform.[1][2][3]
Overview
Laura Bates contends that societal frameworks sustain gender-based injustices by inadequately supporting women’s needs.[4] The book exposes how deep-rooted prejudices within these institutions fuel discrimination and violence targeting women.[1] Drawing from personal experiences, narratives contributed to her Everyday Sexism Project, and empirical data, Bates reveals widespread systemic shortcomings.[2]
The author examines sexism prevalent in education, political arenas, media outlets, policing bodies, and the criminal justice system, illustrating how these domains frequently exacerbate rather than alleviate inequality faced by women.[2] Bates contests the common practice of holding women responsible for their victimization—such as being criticized for walking alone or not asserting equal rights—and insists on institutional responsibility.[3] Additionally, the book addresses how gender disparities are compounded by intersecting issues of race and socioeconomic status.[1]
Critical reception
The Observer praised the book as "an astute and persuasive page-turner," whereas the Sunday Times recognized it as a "powerful" examination of injustices affecting women. Dr. Pragya Agarwal commended its blend of hopefulness and urgency, describing it as "a blistering manifesto for change."
References
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<ref>tag; no text was provided for refs named:1 - ↑ "Fixing The System, Not the Women with Laura Bates". Earwolf. Retrieved 2025-04-11.