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The Female in Aristotle's Biology: Reason or Rationalization

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Many scholars consider the fourth century BCE Greek philosopher Aristotle as the wisest man who ever lived. Everyone agrees that his scientific way of examining the universe had an enormous impact upon people's thinking. His views even affected the philosophy of Christianity, Islam and Judaism. How, then, could such a wise man have such wrong notions about women. Among other foolish notions, he said that women are less spirited than men and are similar to eunuchs. Robert Mayhew explains that despite his intellect Aristotle was affected by the views of his age and although he conducted experiments before making pronouncements, his tools were inferior. Furthermore, despite his protestations, he relied on too much speculation. The book is valuable not only in showing us the history of concepts about women, but to warn people living today that they too are frequently making foolish and harmful mistakes based on improper evidence.