BMET 27A39 - Gender Inequalities in the Social Sciences

This class examines inequalities, power relations, and discrimination based on sex and gender. It situates these issues within a socio-historical perspective on the emergence of patriarchy as a non-natural phenomenon. While physical violence against women and the gendered division of labor are widespread across societies, institutionalized misogyny develops alongside increasing social complexity, notably with intensive agriculture, state formation, and monotheistic religions. By examining the causes of patriarchy, this first part synthesizes recent anthropological and historical research on the topic.

After examining the historical roots of patriarchy, the course shifts to the analysis of key determinants of contemporary gender economic inequalities. It focuses on education and girls’ disadvantage in STEM, labor market discrimination, and the role of family in the wealth gender gap. Drawing on recent research in economics, the course emphasizes studies that go beyond correlations to identify the causal effects of life events—such as childbirth, divorce, and inheritance—on gender inequalities. We will examine the policies and initiatives in place—such as role models, quotas, and parental leave—and assess which of them are most effective in reducing economic inequalities between women and men.

In a final section, we will address contemporary issues such as the antifeminist backlash and masculinist movements, as well as the links between climate change and gender inequalities. We will examine how gender essentialism is sometimes misused to justify a conservative view of gender roles, and how it is also reappropriated by women to protect living systems and strengthen their agency. This course is mainly based on research in economics and quantitative sociology.

At the end of the course, the student is expected to :

Understand the multiple dimensions of patriarchy and trace its historical and institutional origins;

Use quantitative studies and statistical concepts to discuss contemporary gender inequalities between women and men;

Identify and discuss effective public policy measures to reduce these inequalities.

The course is organized in twelve two-hour meetings. Every session includes periods of lecturing, groupwork, and debate.

A key objective of the course is for the students to thoroughly engage with the required readings – that is, that they read them carefully, but also analyze and discuss them. Some readings will be assigned as homework; short texts will also be read in class.

Basic econometrics (regression analysis, dependent and independent variables)

To validate the course, the student is expected to pass the following assignments:

At each session, students will design a set of cards featuring key concepts and salient facts. These cards will be created using the Anki Cards application, which has been shown to be effective for knowledge retention.

Students are required to review these cards regularly in preparation for a final exam at the end of the course (75% of the final grade).

Each student will present a scientific article (10-minutes presentation, 25% of the final grade).