Question

How does the author make a distinction between past societal views toward female

scientists and the reality of female involvement in science?

Answer 1

In the past, societal views toward female scientists were often negative and restrictive. A small number of feminists challenged these views using scientific methods. Despite these efforts, women still face underrepresentation in many scientific fields today.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the past, societal views toward female scientists were often negative and restrictive. Many scholars of the time did not recognize gender distinctions or acknowledge the involvement of women in science in their works. However, a small number of feminists who were professors and scientists used their skills and training to challenge the notion that women were intellectually inferior. They used the scientific method to debunk myths and advocate for gender equality. Despite these efforts, women still face underrepresentation in many scientific fields today.