Feb 11 • 16:00 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil G1 (PT)

Science and inequality: invisible costs and the scissor effect drive women away from scientific careers

The article discusses how hidden costs and societal barriers hinder women's participation in scientific careers, especially highlighted on International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

The article brings attention to the persistent inequalities faced by women in science, especially on the occasion of International Day of Women and Girls in Science. While statistics often highlight the underrepresentation of women in scientific fields, the article argues that numbers alone fail to illuminate the systemic issues—such as educational, economic, territorial, and symbolic inequalities—that perpetuate these disparities. Simply increasing the number of women in science does not address the deeper, structural challenges that remain unexamined.

Moreover, the text delves into what it describes as 'invisible costs'—the often-overlooked financial, social, and emotional burdens that women face in their scientific careers. These costs can manifest in various forms, such as the need for childcare, lack of funding for research that is equitable, and the social dynamics that can alienate women in predominantly male environments. The article calls for a more nuanced understanding of these barriers beyond mere numbers to develop comprehensive policies that support women in science.

Finally, the author underscores the need for systemic change in how science operates, suggesting that efforts should not only focus on boosting the statistics of women in science but also on dismantling the mechanisms that sustain gender inequality in this field. Emphasizing collaboration and supportive policies can create a more inclusive environment that empowers women to thrive in scientific careers.

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