Athena Unbound: The Advancement of Women in Science and Technology

by Henry Etzkowitz , Carol Kemelgor , Brian Uzzi

• ISBN13: 9780521787383
• ISBN10: 0521787386
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2000-11-06
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Summary

Why are there still so few female scientists? Despite the scientific ethos of universalism and inclusion, women continue to experience real social inequities as they struggle to gain recognition in the scientific community. Based on extensive interviews and backed by quantitative analysis, this compelling work exposes the hidden barriers, subtle exclusions, and unwritten rules that confront women at every juncture along the scientific career path--from childhood to retirement. Through vivid personal accounts the authors offer an illuminating and sobering view of the effects these obstacles have on the personal and professional lives of women. They argue that women can succeed in the scientific workplace by successfully managing "social capital," those networks and relationships scientists rely on for professional support and new ideas. This benchmark volume is vital reading for all scientists and social scientists--both male and female--and for women considering a scientific career.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements
Introduction: Women in science: Why so few?	1	(4)
The science career pipeline	5	(10)
Women and science: Athena Bound	15	(16)
Gender, sex and science	31	(18)
Selective access	49	(20)
Critical transitions in the graduate and post-graduate career path	69	(14)
Women's (and men's) graduate experience in science	83	(22)
The paradox of critical mass for women in science	105	(10)
The 'kula ring' of scientific success	115	(16)
Women's faculty experience	131	(6)
Dual male and female worlds of science	137	(10)
Differences between women in science	147	(10)
Social capital and faculty network relationships	157	(22)
Negative and positive departmental cultures	179	(8)
Initiatives for departmental change	187	(16)
International comparisons	203	(22)
Athena Unbound: Policy for women in science	225	(26)
Appendix	251	(6)
Bibliography	257	(12)
Index	269