I am aware, that this argument would carry me further than…
““I am aware, that this argument would carry me further than it may be supposed I wish to go; but I follow truth, and still adhering to my first position, I will allow that bodily strength seems to give man a natural superiority over woman; and this is the only solid basis on which the superiority of the sex can be built. But I still insist, that not only the virtue, but the KNOWLEDGE of the two sexes should be the same in nature, if not in degree, and that women, considered not only as moral, but rational creatures, ought to endeavour to acquire human virtues (or perfections) by the SAME means as men, instead of being educated like a fanciful kind of HALF being, one of Rousseau's wild chimeras.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
She argues physical strength is not a valid basis for gender superiority; true equality lies in shared knowledge and rational virtue.
In simple terms: Physical strength shouldn't determine gender superiority; equality is intellectual.
Key Takeaway
Promote equal education and opportunities for all genders.
Themes
gender
equality
philosophy
education
Mood
hopeful
determined
Type
philosophical
advocational
When to use this quote
- advocating gender parity
- designing inclusive curricula
- challenging stereotypes
Key Concepts
social constructs
human rights
Questions to Reflect On
- How can education systems embody this equality?
- What barriers persist in achieving shared virtue?
A Different Perspective
Societal change may be slow despite philosophical arguments.