Profs Spar on ‘Innate Differences’
In a debate at Harvard, Professors Steven Pinker and Elizabeth Spelke discussed whether innate differences contribute to the underrepresentation of tenured women in math and science, prompted by University President Lawrence H. Summers’ comments. Pinker argued that biological factors, such as male superiority in mental rotation and problem-solving skills, account for men's greater success in these fields. He also suggested that men and women have different life priorities, with men more focused on status and money. Spelke acknowledged gender differences but attributed women's scarcity in academia to discrimination, citing studies showing bias against women with identical resumes to men. The debate concluded with many audience members feeling Spelke had the stronger argument.
| Creator |
Sherman, Natalie I.
|
|---|---|
| Publisher |
The Harvard Crimson
|
| Date |
2005-04-25
|
| Format |
Digital
|
| Local URL |
https://www.thecrimson.com/article/2005/4/25/profs-spar-on-innate-differences-in/
|
|---|
| Tags | Student Publications |
|---|---|
| Date Added | July 10, 2024 |
| Date Modifed | January 7, 2025 |
| Collection | Harvard and Gender Discrimination |