Gender Myths V. Working Realities: Using Social Science to Reformulate Sexual Harassment Law
Theresa M. Beiner, GENDER MYTHS V. WORKING REALITIES: USING SOCIAL SCIENCE TO REFORMULATE SEXUAL HARASSMENT LAW, NYU Press, 2005
Posted: 14 Jun 2005
Abstract
Both the courts and the public seem confused about sexual harassment - what it is, how it functions, and what sorts of behaviors are actionable in court. This book contrasts perspectives from social scientists on the realities of workplace sexual harassment with the current legal standard. All too often courts (and employers) are left in the difficult position of grappling with vague legal standards with little guidance about what sexual harassment is and what can be done to stop it. Sometimes, courts impose their own stereotyped view of how women and men ought to behave in the workplace. This viewpoint, social science reveals, is frequently out of sync with reality. This book provides insight into what behaviors people perceive as harassing, why such behavior can be characterized as discrimination because of sex, and what types of workplaces are more conducive to sexually harassing behavior than others. Throughout, the author offers proposals for legal reform with the goal of furthering workplace equality for both men and women.
Keywords: Sexual harassment, employment discrimination, gender
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