The Evolution of Women

Hannah Riess

Mrs. Wagener

English 11 AP

29, July 2013

The Evolution of Women

            Over the course of history, women have been thought of as inferior to men. Women around the world have been attempting to free themselves of discrimination to earn their rights and responsibilities of citizenship.  The stereotypical view of women being the caretakers of homes and children has been rapidly changing over the last century. According to a survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, forty percent of families with children under the age of eighteen have mothers who are the primary source of income for the family. The evolution of women’s roles is a huge accomplishment given the views that people once had on women. These unacceptable views of women have been a central part of philosophy, especially in the time of Aristotle and Plato. 

            As a woman, I find Aristotle’s views on women to be incredibly incorrect. In Aristotle’s words, “A woman was an ‘unfinished man’.” Also, Aristotle believed that the male was responsible for the creation and the characteristics of the child, while the woman was merely a place for the baby to grow. It is evident that the opinions of Aristotle are undeniably inaccurate. Both men and women are equally influential in the creation of a child. For such an intelligent man, Aristotle was senseless in regards to his view on women.

            On the other hand, Plato had a much more positive and reflective view of women. Plato believed women had the same reasoning as men if they were provided with the same training and were not liable for having children. As a result of Plato’s sensible opinions on women, I find him to be the most admirable when it comes to answering the questions about gender. Unfortunately, it was Aristotle’s beliefs that became the most conventional way of thinking during the Middle Ages. It is a misfortune that Aristotle’s incorrect views of women were accepted. However, it is reassuring that Plato had honorable opinions in a time where women faced such hardship.

            In Sophie’s World, the majority of the philosophers are men. All things considered, it did not bother me that there were virtually no women involved due to the time periods the novel was written about. I was not surprised by the fact that there were few female philosophers discussed in the novel because philosophy was a male dominate field in the past.  Women were not very influential during the early years of the world. However, there is reference to a few important female figures in Sophie’s World, which is pleasing because it shows women were starting to evolve in the world.

            The important concept to me is women have developed into a crucial part of today’s society. As time goes on, women are becoming more successful and essential in the workplace and every other aspect of life. I am proud to say women are flourishing in a world where we were once thought of as inferior.  As a woman, I know we will continue to thrive and be stronger than ever. Plato’s encouraging opinions about women led the way for the prosperity women around the world are experiencing today.