PHIL 3380 - Feminist Philosophy of Science

Feminist philosophy of science has had a major impact on ideas about knowledge, objectivity, biology, and the brain. The relation between feminism and science is complex, as women have traditionally been excluded from scientific institutions and activities, or relegated to subordinate roles. The range of feminist responses to science engages fundamental philosophical questions: How does the ideal of knowledge relate to actual human practices? Is truly objective knowledge possible? What is the relation between the mind and the (sexed) body? Are categories of sex and gender essential – and what could this mean, given what we know about biology? This course examines central topics and key works in feminist philosophy of science, highlighting the major debates and broader impacts on philosophy and science.