Fatema Mernissi
Naomi Alderman explores Fatema Mernissi’s ideas on voice and power, and how storytelling and communication shape women’s agency and cultural change.
Naomi Alderman returns with her series that explores the minds of the greatest thinkers in history. From political theorists to scientists to inventors, authors and artists. Our world is based on their ideas and innovations. How did they do their work, what did they struggle with, where did they find their dedication, creativity and inspiration?
Fatema Mernissi, a pioneering sociologist and Islamic feminist whose work centred on voice, storytelling, and power. She examined how narrative becomes a tool of resistance and survival. Naomi Alderman explores her belief that who gets to speak, and be heard, shapes societies, identities, and authority structures. Mernissi also recognised early on how emerging digital spaces could amplify women’s voices globally. Her thinking blends sociology, literature, and activism, offering a profound framework for understanding communication, agency, and cultural transformation.
Special thanks to Zakia Salime, associate professor of sociology and women's and gender and sexuality studies at Rutgers University.
Produced by Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµ Studios in partnership with The Open University.
Presenter: Naomi Alderman
Production Co-ordinator: Amelia Paul
Researcher: Sasha Edye-Lindner
Series Producer: Anishka Sharma
Executive Producer: Paul Smith
Mix Engineer: Nigel Appleton
Production Manager: Jo Kyle
On radio
More episodes
Broadcast
- Thu 27 Aug 2026 13:45Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµ Radio 4
Podcast
-
Human Intelligence
Great minds don't think alike. Naomi Alderman investigates brilliant thinkers.