Algunas contribuciones de la mujer a las ciencias experimentales

Abstract

Contributions of women to Science in the past have been scarce, but relevant in several cultures. Nevertheless, these contributions have been further obscured by subsequent male writers. Even in recent publications there is a strong tendency to neglect the role of women in Science. A few examples are given to show that there were a few outstanding female scientist in Antiquity, such as Hypatia of Alexandria and Miriam the Jewess that contradict the baconian view of science, which creates a dichotomy between feminine and scientific stereotypes. A small summary of the achievements of these two scientists as well as of a few others is presented. In modern times, most part of the research wasdeveloped within the framework of Universities and, since women were not admitted until theend of last century, they disappeared of the scientific world. Once they were admitted in Universities, their contribution to Science increased, but strong differences are found depending upon the country. Thus, while in Spain they are now reaching medium levels, in the United States there has been a very productive female scientific community since the end of last century.