Bits Quote by Alix Kates Shulman
“I did not intend to be a writer. I first wanted to be a lawyer, like my father. Then I got bit by the bug of philosophy and wanted to be a philosophy professor. I went to graduate school and quickly discovered it was impossible for a woman in those days - this was the early fifties - to be a philosopher, so I gave that up.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Female Voice in Academia, 1990
She describes how gender bias forced her to abandon a philosophy career, highlighting systemic barriers for women.
In simple terms: Gender bias blocked her academic path.
Recognize and challenge institutional sexism.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- mid‑20th‑century academia
- career change
- advocacy for women
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How have opportunities for women in philosophy changed?
- What steps can institutions take to reduce bias?
The account may oversimplify complex personal choices and broader social dynamics.