Czech Women Philosophers and Scientists

This book examines the most important Czech women philosophers and scientists. It highlights the lives and achievements of a group that has often not received the recognition they deserve. Chapters provide a systematic description and critical evaluation of the impact these women had on the history of philosophy and science.

After an opening chapter on the status of women philosophers and scientists in the period before 1820, the book explores the role women played in the 19th century rise of Czech culture (Czech National Revival). The following chapter then introduces the situation of Czech women philosophers and scientists in the 20th century. The authors base the material on analysis of key works and the characteristics of contemporary debates in which these women participated.

The volume describes the complex conditions of women in Czech history in relation to the position of learned women in other European countries. The authors also emphasize their link to the historical background. This encompassing coverage helps provide readers with a richer understanding of these important women and the period in which they lived. Academicians and the general public alike will also learn about the political and social limitations these women faced and the influence of historical conditions on their work.

Auteur

Zdeka Jastrzembská is an Assistant Professor of Philosophy of Science, Epistemology and Czech Philosophy at Masaryk University, Brno.

Dagmar Pichová is an Assistant Professor of French Philosophy and Literature and History of Women Philosophers at Masaryk University, Brno.

Jan Zouhar is a Professor of Czech Philosophy and Masaryk and Marx at Masaryk University, Brno.

Contenu

Historical timeline

Introduction I. Czech women in philosophy and science before 1820

1. Earliest period

2. Renaissance and reformation

2.1. Women with humanistic education

2.2. Women in reformation movements

2.3. Women in society and politics

3. Baroque and classicism

3.1.Translators

3.2. Readers and book collectors

3.3. Authors of manuscripts

II. Czech women in philosophy and science after 1820

1. Woman supporting man's virtues and happiness

2. Encyclopaedia for ladies

3. Natural scientific interest and socially critical ideas

4. Education, duty and happiness

5. Care for others and the past

6. First university graduates

III. Czech women in philosophy and science since 1918

1. In the spirit of the First Republic (1918-1939)

2. World War II (1939-1945)

3. Rise of communist ideology (1945-1989)

Conclusion

Bibliography Index