Catholic teaching on labor justice is one of the best-known aspects of Catholic social thought. What is less common, however, is an application of that general teaching to specific situations. In this book, Joseph Loïc Mben, S.J. provides an excellent illustration of how to employ Catholic social teaching in a concrete setting; he develops an ethical methodology that is faithful to the Catholic social tradition and richly informed by the African context.

Kenneth R. Himes, OFM, Boston College

Joseph Loïc Mben’s tour de force delivers an incisive reassessment of Catholic social teaching, African theology, and feminist hermeneutics in regard to women’s work. Not only does this evidenced-based pioneering analysis uncover discomforting gendered injustices spawned by the deficiencies and dysfunctionalities of regnant socioeconomic models, but it also presents an alternative vision that celebrates the resilience of women, recognizes their dignity, and honors their contribution to human flourishing in church and society. A thought-provoking narrative that comprehensively limns the prospects and promises for women’s empowerment and radical social transformation.

Agbonkhianmeghe E. Orobator, SJ, president of Jesuit Conference of Africa and Madagascar

This unique book, focused on Cameroon, breaks the boundaries of past Christian diagnoses of gender injustice. Joseph Mben does not stop at bible, theology, or moral ideals. He makes social science analysis key to diagnosing causes and remedies, analyzing in detail the realities of patriarchy, custom and law that disadvantage women in Africa. He outlines concretely how churches can collaborate with civil society organizations, change attitudes, empower women, and instigate change. This not only offers a powerrful vision of African women’s strength and future, but also an essential methodology for all Christian ethicists.

Lisa Cahill, Boston College