The struggles of women in science : an honors thesis (HONRS 499)

Women have not always been welcome in scientific circles in all parts of the world. In previous centuries it was even believed that women were not capable of scientific thought without compromising their ability to reproduce. Italy was an exception to this idea. In the eighteenth century, Italian universities allowed and included women in scientific and mathematical courses and jobs. These women flourished in the fields and many even married and had several children, while continuing their careers. Due to differences between men and women in physical and psychological aspects, women have been treated with less respect or less confidence then men, and even excluded from certain careers. Some of the reasons behind the difference in treatment are due to cultural beliefs as well as myths and assumptions about females. Many of the myths have been discounted, but there are still those who believe that women are not capable of contributing to science in the same manner as men. In today's society, circumstances are much better and women have become more prevalent in scientific and mathematical areas, but situations are still not as equal as they could be. Overall, changes have been made within society and the areas of mathematics and science, but there are still more changes that need to be made for the improvement in the treatment of women in these areas.