Neglect of gender inequalities in the distribution of resources, responsibilities and power in the processes of economic accumulation and social reproduction has a high cost for women, children and other dependents and for the development of society as a whole.

This book highlights the inter-connections between production and reproduction within different societies; women's critical role in straddling both and points to various synergies, trade-offs and externalities which these generate.

Naila Kabeer's book will be of significant use to policy-makers, practitioners, researchers and other stakeholders committed to the pursuit of pro-poor and human-centred development.