Q&A with Alex Bollen on her upcoming book ‘Motherdom’

On 14 September, SJC Women’s Network hosted a talk by author Alex Bollen (1991, Modern History) who presented on her forthcoming book Motherdom: Breaking Free from Bad Science and Good Mother Myths (Verso, 2025). The audience Q&A was facilitated by Kate Molesworth, our Network Chair.

Alex, a researcher with more than two decades of experience, honed her craft during her career at Ipsos MORI. In her book, she uses her research skills to examine the evidence for society’s "Good Mother" myths—an assortment of narratives, ideologies, and stereotypes justified by what is often dubious science and spurious invocations of 'nature'. These myths are used to censure mothers and blame them for the ills of society.

Alex’s book argues that we need to replace the 'Good Myths' with “motherdom”—a more generous and expansive concept of motherhood that values and respects the different ways people raise their children. Instead of finding fault with mothers, Motherdom shifts the focus to the relationships and resources children need to flourish. Alex’s book is due to be published by Verso this March, to coincide with International Women’s Day. It has a strong St John’s connection, as it draws on the work of Professor Dorothy Bishop, Professor Sarah-Jayne Blakemore, and Sir Keith Thomas. Therefore, College an apt setting to the first review of her book .

After the talk, there was a lively session in which many members of the audience expanded on the themes discussed by Alex and Kate. There were many insightful questions, which also drew on observations of motherhood from the audience, based on both their professional and personal experiences. The conversation then moved to Canterbury Quad for a drinks reception and dinner in the Hall. As is always the case, the event was attended by a wide array of diverse members of our Network, including current students, alumni, and academic and administrative staff of the college— including a College President or two! We are grateful for the continued support of the College from its staff and for the College community of current students and alumni.

You can pre order and read reviews of Alex's book here.