Women Who Made Science History

By: Leila McNeill, The Great Courses

Narrated by: Leila McNeill

Laura Bassi was once called a “monster”. And she was. She was a monster of intellect. In 1732, she became the first female doctor of philosophy at the University of Bologna. Her doctoral degree defense was a highly public event, attended by foreigners, clergy, professors, nobility, and onlookers—yet she was still forbidden from teaching at the university and was deliberately excluded from a prestigious group of academics within the Institute for Science.

It’s not news that women have been denied the same educational and institutional opportunities, resources, and access as men, and that science’s history is often told through the stories of great men, with a few great women making an appearance here and there. But that approach misses the big picture. The history of science isn’t complete without women.

Leila McNeill, an author, editor, and historian of women and gender in science, introduces us to 10 lesser-known women who have, in their own unique ways, shaped the world in which we all live. As you hear about their lives and stories, you’ll discover a more complete picture of science—what science is, how it is done, and who gets to participate. You’ll see that women in science are not anomalies. They aren’t separate from the flow of time and onward march of history. Women, in their own innovative ways, have always played a part in shaping science and, in turn, our world and our understanding of our place in it.

©2023 Audible Originals, LLC (P)2023 Audible Originals, LLC

Really interesting!

I am most struck by being reminded of the barriers women, and women of color, faced in scientific workplaces. I would guess there are many more stories out there and I would love to hear them!

Enlightening and informative!

While listening to the fascinating and wonderful narratives on the scientific contributions of these women, some of whom I had not heard of, I realize the importance of acknowledging and recognizing their achievements. It makes me realize that there are many more untold stories about other women whose histories have the ability to inspire young girls and other young women everywhere.

Great history

Love the way it was presented and what I learned. Quite a few of these women I didn’t know about already. Great read.

enjoyed

great summaries of women I did not know enough about. glad I made time.

Women Changing History

It’s inspiring to hear about the women that made great strife in science, and are finally getting recognized for it. I was surprised, however to hear that Rosalyn Carter was missed.