1. How Men & Women See Themselves Chapter 8.1

2. Long-standing Questions  What makes  A man a man?  A woman a woman?  Is there an intrinsic difference?  Is it merely biological?  Is it societal?

3. Various views:  Rigid differences, roles particularly visible in patriarchal societies  Other philosophers: men & women share the same basic nature  Others emphasize differences but do not support either sex being placed in an inferior role

4. Gender in Ancient Greece  For the most part, men & women were not of equal status  Each sex had distinct social roles  Men: public affairs, voting…  Women: home, secondary place

5. Plato’s view of women  men & women can be equally skilled at most occupations  They should receive the same education  See page 261-263

6. Review Plato on Nature & Role of Women  If men & women do the same tasks, they should have the same education  Men & women have the same natural aptitudes

7. Aristotle  The essential nature of men & women is determined by biology  Nature, not nurture  Biology, not experience  Determines what makes us the men and women we are

8. Aristotle believed  Society should be organized around biology  Women: defined by biological & reproductive role  Men: embody power in family & society  Page 264

9. Aristotle on:  Men & Women  Male > female  Male rules  Female ruled  Same difference as between soul & body  Marital Authority  Head of household rules over wife & children  Like a statesman  Male naturally fitter to command