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Change Quote by Mary Beard

“Those reasons are much more basic: it is flagrantly unjust to keep women out, by whatever unconscious means we do so; and we simply cannot afford to do without women’s expertise, whether it is in technology, the economy or social care. If that means fewer men get into the legislature, as it must…” quote by Mary Beard
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““Those reasons are much more basic: it is flagrantly unjust to keep women out, by whatever unconscious means we do so; and we simply cannot afford to do without women’s expertise, whether it is in technology, the economy or social care. If that means fewer men get into the legislature, as it must do – social change always has its losers as well as its winners – I am happy to look those men in the eye.””

Mary Beard

About This Quote

Source Speech: Public Lecture on Gender Equality, 2023

Excluding women is unjust and costly; society needs women's expertise across fields, even if it reduces male representation.

In simple terms: Women must be included for fairness and benefit.

Key Takeaway

Advocate gender inclusion despite resistance.

Themes

equality expertise social change

Mood

determined optimistic

Type

advocacy inspirational

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • technology teams
  • healthcare leadership
  • education boards

Key Concepts

gender bias economic impact political representation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can institutions value women's expertise?
  • What strategies reduce unconscious exclusion?
A Different Perspective

Resistance may arise from entrenched power structures.

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