Review by Choice Review
A translation of the 17th-century Cartesian philosopher Poulain de la Barre's De l'egalite des deux sexes. The translator's introduction is useful in putting the work into context: first, as an attempt by a follower of Descartes to put the notion of demonstration by "clear and distinct" ideas into practice by tackling one of the more unquestioned assumptions of the age; and second, as an early attempt at formulating arguments in a feminist vein. The work, however, remains one of limited importance. It is an interesting historical artifact, but had no impact on the philosophical debates generated by Cartesianism or the later feminism. Although it is useful for scholars to have access to this early exercise in defense of women, the book is appropriate only for those libraries serving graduate programs in women's studies or European intellectural history. -M. Feder-Marcus, SUNY College at Old Westbury
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
