Madam, - Like Deirdre Shiel (January 21st), I am attempting to complete a programme in gender and women's studies, at Trinity College Dublin. If I am successful, I shall be rewarded with the grand title of "Master of Philosophy".
The gain of title does not interest me. I am paying fees of €4,800 to do this course because I believe passionately in the possibility of creating a better equality, globally, not only across the divides of gender relations, but of race and class relations.
In order to explore ways of creating better gender equality, it is, in my opinion, necessary to enquire why women are for the most part absent from the grand historical narratives (apart from the token heroines) and the great philosophical discourses of our past. Can anyone name a "Mistress of Philosophy" of the past millennium? Thankfully, contemporary feminist theorists in the academy are now writing women into these discourses.
Gender and women's studies programmes aim to erase the concept of sexism. This would surely lead us to greater equity between the sexes. It should be our common aim, not just for men alone or for women alone. For those who are concerned about the lack of men's studies programmes, there is presently on offer a series of free public lectures on the subject of "Boys, Men and Masculinities", sponsored by the equality unit of the Department of Education and Science and the Centre for Gender and Women's Studies, TCD. The series promises to stimulate thought and debate and perhaps action against gender inequalities.
Awareness of gender differences and similarities will help us to act individually and collectively in creating a better world for all. Well done, UCG! - Is mise,
DEIRDRE SHORTEN, Enniskerry, Co Wicklow.