Philosophy, theology and engineering are each characterised by striking, yet similar, low participation rates by female academics. While these disciplines seem very different, and so the diagnosis of the causes of this under-representation might likewise be expected to differ, we show a commonality of analysis in the diagnoses of, and responses to, women's under-representation. In each, we find a shared argument that concepts and methodologies central to that discipline are gendered male. We also find a shared response which urges engagement in projects of critical re-imagination. We conclude with a case study of critical re-imagination in philosophy and draw some lessons from its successes and failures for the potential of gendered innovations to transform male dominated disciplines. While critical re-imagination of key concepts, presuppositions, and methodologies in these disciplines may be a necessary condition for improving participation rates by women, it is by no means sufficient.
History
Publication title
Women's Studies International Forum
Volume
86
Article number
102479
Number
102479
Pagination
1-10
ISSN
0277-5395
Department/School
School of Social Sciences
Publisher
Elsevier
Place of publication
The Boulevard, Langford Lane, Kidlington, Oxford, England, Ox5 1Gb