This text offers an interdisciplinary critique of the free market backlash - the view that free-market economics can improve the position, status and well-being of women. The authors challenge the view that equal opportunities legislation distorts the market and advocate policy intervention as a positive and enabling force for equal opportunities.

This book draws upon the experiences of a group of women in social science who came together for support and encouragement in becoming 'research active'. It identifies the main issues facing women in research and will be useful to those considering, or already embarked upon a research career as well as contributing to debates about women's role in the academic world. This collection breaks new ground by combining the reflections of established researchers with self-assessment exercises for potential researchers.