Feminism Quote by Ruth Brandon
![“...Obduracy can be overcome by determination. More insidious, and far harder to destroy, was women's internalizing of the notion that they were somehow inferior to men, a complementary species designed (in W.R. Greg's words) to 'complet[e], sweeten, and embellish the existence of others'. [Women]…” quote by Ruth Brandon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a69/ruth-brandon-80021_women-s-rights_obduracy-can-be-overcome-by-determinatio_3170087.jpg)
““...Obduracy can be overcome by determination. More insidious, and far harder to destroy, was women's internalizing of the notion that they were somehow inferior to men, a complementary species designed (in W.R. Greg's words) to 'complet[e], sweeten, and embellish the existence of others'. [Women] still chose to become nurses rather than doctors, secretaries rather than bosses: to be ill-paid facilitators for people no more talented nor, in many cases, better educated than themselves, but who simply happened to be men. The notion that they might be their bosses' equals penetrated only very slowly; the possibility that they might even be their superiors, though accepted in theory, has perhaps still not wholly sunk in.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Female Mind, 2018
Women have historically internalized inferiority, limiting career choices despite equal capability, a bias that persists despite societal progress.
In simple terms: Women often feel less capable due to ingrained beliefs.
Key Takeaway
Challenge internalized stereotypes.
Themes
gender equality
career bias
historical oppression
determination
social roles
Mood
critical
inspirational
Type
analytical
motivational
When to use this quote
- career counseling
- school curricula
- workplace diversity training
- media representation
Key Concepts
feminist theory
psychology
sociology
education
empowerment
Questions to Reflect On
- What steps can individuals take to counteract internalized bias?
- How can institutions promote true equality?
A Different Perspective
Change is slow; deep‑seated beliefs resist quick fixes.
