Chess for girls? Feminism and computer games

Abstract

pointing out the benefits to be gained by chess playing? Or would we start companies designed to bring chess closer to pursuits that are more associated with girls---perhaps, as this parody did, by constructing chess pieces that resemble dolls? Or, finally, would we look into the contexts in which girls might appropriate chess, leaving the rules the same but setting up clubs that had the purpose of beating boys at their own game? Might chess-set companies realize that only 50% of the youth population was spending its dollars on chess sets, chess books, and electronic chess teachers and implement advertising campaigns aimed at cultivating girl players? Which of the above three strategies would educators and parents choose, and which strategy would the game industry choose? As cultural theorists, psychologists, and theorists of education, which strateg(ies) would we stand behind, and which strategies would we criticize? Why does a `Chess for Girls' movement seem absurd, while a movement

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