Lost Women of Science
Best Of: The Feminist Test We Keep Failing
Nov 23, 2023
Ann Finkbeiner, creator of the Finkbeiner Test, discusses the need for gender-neutral profiles of female scientists. Topics include challenging gender tropes, the controversy over Yvonne Brill's obituary, media portrayal issues, limitations of the Finkbeiner Test, and the importance of inclusivity in science.
21:59
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Quick takeaways
- The Finkbeiner Test provides guidelines for writing about female scientists without being sexist by avoiding personal details and focusing on their scientific achievements.
- The portrayal of women scientists often strip them of personal details while emphasizing gender stereotypes, highlighting the need for more balanced and respectful portrayals.
Deep dives
The Think-Binder Test and the Problem with Gendered Profiles
The podcast episode discusses the Think-Binder test, which is a set of guidelines for writing about female scientists without being sexist. The test suggests avoiding mentioning personal details like the husband's job or childcare arrangements, focusing solely on their scientific achievements. However, the hosts question the rigidity of the test, arguing that personal information can provide a fuller understanding of a scientist's life and motivations. They also question why personal details are stripped from women's profiles instead of added to men's. The hosts acknowledge the importance of gender equality in science but highlight the need for balance in portraying women scientists.
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