Violence against women: Problematizing theoretical, philosophical and legal definitions

Abstract

Domestic violence against women is a multiple and complex phenomenon that brings to light important theoretical-philosophical discussions and ethical-political questionings. This article aims to articulate gender perspective to the analysis of violence in subjective, historical, social and cultural dimensions, seeking critical (re)readings about the definitions of these violence. The look on Brazil's sexist and patriarchal culture reveals postures of justification and trivializing of this violence that recent legislation, such as the Maria da Penha Law, has tried to overcome. This law brings legal and procedural innovations that aim to take legal, political and cultural changes in the affirmation of women human rights. In this perspective, we proposed to discuss definitions and typifications of violence against women and articulate an ethical and historical understanding of human rights; therefore, incorporating ethical and political dimensions to the complex and critical understanding of domestic violence against women.