The Dissenter

#1157 Melissa Shew & Kimberly Garchar: Philosophy for Girls

Oct 2, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Melissa Shew, an expert in teaching excellence from Marquette University, and Kimberly Garchar, an associate professor of philosophy at Kent State University, delve into their book, Philosophy for Girls. They discuss why philosophy should be inclusive and how it can empower younger women and non-binary individuals. The duo tackles the systemic gender gap in academic philosophy, examines the difference between sex and gender, and highlights the importance of representing women's unique experiences in philosophical discourse.
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INSIGHT

Philosophy Is Not Gendered

  • Philosophy is not inherently male; historical representation shaped that image.
  • Making philosophy clear and accessible can expand who belongs in it.
ADVICE

Write For A Special Guest But Everyone

  • Target the book to younger women and non-binary readers while keeping it useful for everyone.
  • Encourage men to read it to better understand younger non-male peers.
INSIGHT

Exclusion Explains Representation Gap

  • Girls have been systemically excluded from philosophical history and public intellectual life.
  • Empowering girls intellectually requires relatable, rigorous entry points into philosophy.
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