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Life Quote by Carl Sagan

“Why is the half of humanity with a special sensitivity to the preciousness of life, the half untainted by testosterone poisoning, almost wholly unrepresented in defense establishments and peace negotiations worldwide? [blurb on Daniella Gioseffi's _Women on War_; quoted in Carol Lynn Pearson's…” quote by Carl Sagan
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““Why is the half of humanity with a special sensitivity to the preciousness of life, the half untainted by testosterone poisoning, almost wholly unrepresented in defense establishments and peace negotiations worldwide? [blurb on Daniella Gioseffi's _Women on War_; quoted in Carol Lynn Pearson's _The Ghost of Eternal Polygamy_]””

Carl Sagan

About This Quote

Source Book: The Ghost of Eternal Polygamy, 2020 (quoted)

He questions why women, especially those sensitive to life’s value, are underrepresented in defense and peace roles, highlighting gender bias.

In simple terms: Women are under‑represented in security and peace work.

Key Takeaway

Promote gender balance in defense and peace fields.

Themes

gender equality peacebuilding defense policy

Mood

concerned hopeful

Type

political advocacy

When to use this quote

  • government hiring
  • NGO leadership
  • peace negotiations
  • military training

Key Concepts

social justice representation policy reform

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we increase women’s participation in peace processes?
  • What policies best support gender‑balanced defense teams?
A Different Perspective

Cultural norms may resist change; systemic barriers persist.

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