Philosophy from the Female Perspective

Virginia Held is a modern day philosopher with theories on the feminist view in philosophy. All of the major philosophers have always written from the male perspective. As far back as the Bible, most major writings have always been geared towards men. They were considered the predominant species from the creation of Eve from Adam's rib. Many philosophers have described worlds that were based upon men, war, and reason. These theories were based on the experience of man. Women were too emotional and simple to understand the complexity of the world. Philosophers have always focused on man's influence and role in the world. These philosophers have downplayed or ignored the role of women in history. This paper will discuss the gender biased opinions of other philosophers as well as the importance of women in life. Virginia Held states that the history of philosophy has always been in favor of man. All theories have been based upon the male point of view. Philosophers' theories have been based on "assumptions and concepts that are by no means gender neutral". (Morality and Moral Controversies, pg. 89) Held's paper discusses the biased point of views displayed by many prominent philosophers. She has maintained that with the appearance of feminism and feminist ethics, major changes will have to be made in philosophy and theories. It is a fact that men and women have a different view on all things. This can be attributed to the fact that man and woman have different beliefs on what is important. This is not because women are unreasonable, but because of emotion. While women will try to do what is right, their theories of right and wrong are based upon the feelings that they have for the individual. A perfect example of this would be someone close to us was sick and needed medicine.

The family is poor and cannot afford to pay for it. Should it be stolen? In the typical male, as described by philosophers, the medicine would not be stolen. Immanuel