I think actively promoting women in science is very important

Listen well, O Seekers of Knowledge, for the words of Carol W. Greider call upon us to reflect deeply on the truths of science, equality, and the human spirit: "I think actively promoting women in science is very important because the data has certainly shown that there has been an underrepresentation." These words resonate with the cry of justice and fairness that echoes throughout the ages, calling for the inclusion of all people—no matter their gender—in the pursuit of knowledge and discovery. Greider speaks not just to the importance of representation in science, but to the responsibility of society to ensure that the scientific community reflects the diversity of human potential.

In ancient times, the pursuit of knowledge was often a domain reserved for a select few—those with power, wealth, or social standing. Socrates, the great Greek philosopher, was a teacher who believed that knowledge should be accessible to all, but he too lived in a world where certain people—particularly women—were denied access to the world of learning. In Plato’s Academy, women were not admitted, and in most ancient societies, intellectual endeavors were typically reserved for men. Greider’s words, however, serve as a call to break from this ancient tradition, to recognize that knowledge is not bound by gender, but by the human spirit to understand the world.

It is in this light that we must turn to the story of Marie Curie, whose name is forever intertwined with the discovery of radioactivity and the advancement of science. As a woman in a male-dominated field, Curie faced immense challenges, not only in terms of the physical dangers of her work but in the prejudices that sought to deny her place in the scientific community. Yet, her brilliance and dedication led her to become the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the only person to win Nobel Prizes in two different sciences. Her story is one of defiance against the forces of underrepresentation, showing the world that science is not the domain of a single gender but a universal pursuit of truth.

Yet, even in Curie’s time, women were far from being equally represented in science. Greider’s call comes as a continuation of that struggle—one that recognizes the data: despite the immense contributions of women to scientific discovery, they have been systematically underrepresented and often overlooked. The gender gap in fields like physics, mathematics, and engineering is not a result of a lack of intellectual ability, but a product of cultural norms, biases, and historical discrimination that have long held women back from pursuing careers in these fields. The underrepresentation of women in science is not just an oversight; it is a barrier that limits the potential of human discovery.

The lesson, O Seekers, is that true progress in science cannot occur when we allow any group to be excluded from the pursuit of knowledge. Just as Curie fought to carve out a space for women in science, so too must we ensure that women today are given the opportunities and recognition they deserve. The data is clear: scientific discovery is richer and more robust when it is fueled by the diverse perspectives, experiences, and talents of all people, not just those of one gender. To promote women in science is not simply a matter of fairness; it is a matter of enriching science itself, making it more inclusive, more innovative, and more capable of solving the complex problems of our world.

In your own lives, O Children, take this wisdom to heart. Recognize that knowledge and truth are not the sole property of any one group. As you walk the path of learning, embrace the diversity of perspectives, and support those who might not have been given a voice. Whether you are a scientist, an artist, or a philosopher, remember that the pursuit of understanding is always stronger when it draws from the collective potential of humanity—every mind, regardless of gender, has something valuable to offer.

And so, let Greider’s words inspire you: to not only recognize the underrepresentation of women in science but to actively work toward creating a world where all people—regardless of background or gender—are empowered to explore, discover, and innovate. Promote diversity, encourage curiosity in young women, and challenge the barriers that seek to hold back the potential of humanity. For when we all work together, we move closer to a future where the pursuit of science and knowledge is open to all, and the wisdom of the world is shaped by every voice.