In this episode, Jacinta speaks with Sabrina Ebbersmeyer, Professor of Philosophy at Copenhagen University, about the perceived suitability of women for philosophy in the 17th and 18th centuries, especially in the Nordic and German context. We focus on two key figures, philosophers Anna Maria van Schurman and Elizabeth of Bohemia, and one key concept, ingenium. Professor Ebbersmeyer goes in depth about how philosophers thought about ingenium during this period (today we might use a different phrase such as talent, or ingeniousness), and she talks about how Schurman cleverly turned the concept to her own purpose of advocating for women’s education. Elisabeth of Bohemia, on the other hand, was held up as an exemplar of ingenium during her time. Professor Ebbersmeyer wraps up the episode with her thoughts on the importance of including women philosophers in philosophy curriculums, and how impactful it is for female students to be presented with them.
