This article introduces a philosophical reflection about the recognition and representation of violence. It argues for the political importance of thinking about the way an experience is represented, and the frame of reference in which that representation is inscribed. Feminisms have sought recognition for the violence of experiences that had not been considered violent before, in order to avoid them in the future. The “violent” character of an experience cannot be taken for granted, and before its violence is recognized, it must be known. Thus, the way a situation emerges within a specific frame of representation may or may not enable the recognition of its violence.
recognition; violence; frameworks; Judith Butler; feminisms