This collection traces the development of language and gender from its original associations with second-wave feminism to its more recent alignment with post-modern approaches to feminism. A new introduction by the editor highlights themes that persist across different historical periods.

Volume I: Foundational Debates 1: Does ‘Women’s Language’ Exist? Part 1: Dominance Framework Part 2: Difference Framework Part 3: Sex as a Sociolinguistic Variable Part 4: Challenging Global Generalizations: Theoretical Perspectives Part 5: Challenging Global Generalizations: Empirical Perspectives Volume II: Foundational Debates 2: Is Language Sexist? Part 1: Sexist Language: Early Articulations Part 3: Sexism and the Linguistic ‘Code’: Androcentric Grammar Part 4: Gender-Based Language Reform Part 5: Limitations to Language Reform: Reform in its Social and Cultural Context Part 6: Limitations to Language Reform: Discursive Practices Volume III: Social Constructionist Approaches to Language and Gender Part 1: Gendered Linguistic Practices as Symbolic/Ideological Categories Part 2: Gender Diversity within Communities of Practice Part 3: Performativity: Normative and Non-Normative Femininities/Masculinities Part 4: Performativity: Liminal and ‘Queer’ Identities Volume IV: Contemporary Debates Part 1: Agency Versus Structure: Language and Gender in Institutions Part 2: Agency Versus Structure: Positioning Gendered Subjects in Popular Culture Part 3: Methodological Debates: When is Gender Relevant? Part 4: Towards a Queer Linguistics