IT is enough for the Men to find a thing establish'd to…
““IT is enough for the Men to find a thing establish'd to make them believe it well grounded. In all countries we are seen in subjection and absolute dependence on the Men, without being admitted to the advantages of sciences, or the opportunity of exerting our capacity in a public station. Hence the Men, according to their usual talent of arguing from seemings, conclude that we ought to be so. (...) But why do the Men persuade themselves that we are less fit for public employments than they are? Can they give any better reason than custom and prejudice form'd in them by external appearances (...)? (...) For if Women are but consider'd as rational creatures, abstracted from the disadvantages imposed upon them by the unjust usurpation and tyranny of the Men, they will be found, to the full, as capable as the Men, of filling these offices.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Women are capable of rational thought and public service when freed from systemic oppression.
In simple terms: Women can be rational and hold public office.
Key Takeaway
Advocate for gender equality in education and employment.
Themes
gender equality
education
political rights
Mood
hopeful
urgent
Type
activist
philosophical
When to use this quote
- workplace
- political office
- educational access
Key Concepts
systemic bias
social reform
Questions to Reflect On
- What barriers prevent women’s full participation?
- How can societies dismantle gender prejudice?
A Different Perspective
Deeply entrenched customs resist change.