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Yet women, whose minds are not enlarged by cultivation, or…

“Yet women, whose minds are not enlarged by cultivation, or in whom the natural selfishness of sensibility hasn’t been expanded by reflection, are very unfit to manage a family, because they always stretch their power and use tyranny to maintain a superiority that rests on nothing but the arbitrary…” quote by Mary Wollstonecraft
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““Yet women, whose minds are not enlarged by cultivation, or in whom the natural selfishness of sensibility hasn’t been expanded by reflection, are very unfit to manage a family, because they always stretch their power and use tyranny to maintain a superiority that rests on nothing but the arbitrary distinction of fortune.””

Mary Wollstonecraft

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Women lacking education and self‑reflection become domineering and unfit for family leadership, relying on arbitrary status rather than merit.

In simple terms: Uneducated, selfish women misuse power.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate education and self‑awareness.

Themes

education self‑reflection gender roles family dynamics

Mood

critical reflective

Type

philosophical social commentary

When to use this quote

  • parenting
  • marriage
  • leadership training
  • community organizing

Key Concepts

feminism psychology social hierarchy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does education change family dynamics?
  • What role does self‑reflection play in leadership?
A Different Perspective

Not all women lack these qualities; cultural context matters.

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