In Our Time
Feminism
Jan 7, 1999
Helena Cronin, a philosopher at the London School of Economics specializing in Darwinian theory, joins Germaine Greer, author of the transformative work *The Female Eunuch*. They delve into the complexities of feminism’s evolution over the last century. The discussion includes whether biological differences between genders are insurmountable and how these influence competitiveness and behaviors. They also explore the impact of cultural shifts on femininity and the pressures women face around reproductive choices, offering insightful perspectives on contemporary feminist challenges.
28:24
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Quick takeaways
- The rise of feminism has significantly empowered women, yet ongoing discussions challenge whether to prioritize equal treatment or acknowledge biological differences.
- Cultural practices interact with biological predispositions, suggesting that understanding these factors can aid in achieving gender equality and redefining feminist goals.
Deep dives
Evolutionary Psychology and Gender Differences
Biological differences between men and women are emphasized as significant factors in shaping behaviors, influencing competitiveness, ambition, and perseverance. Natural selection is argued to have favored these traits historically, resulting in men being generally more competitive due to their potential for reproductive opportunities. Women, on the other hand, have developed a propensity for being judicious in mate selection, which plays a crucial role in evolutionary success. While specific examples of competitive women such as Margaret Thatcher are presented, the discussion highlights that these traits are statistically more pronounced in men.
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