Project Part 6 – Video Introduction
- Bibliography – Mary Astell
- Biography of Mary Astell
- Emilie du Chˆatelet and Mary Astell
- Philosophical Position/Argument – Mary Astell
Closing Arguments:
I am confident that Mary Astell should be included in the syllabus for the History of Modern Philosophy in the future. She was one of the first women to speak out in defense of women’s rights and had several very influential written pieces published. Her ideas on marriage and the education of women were not only incredibly progressive for their time, but also quite popular. Astell, following the death of her father, decided to not marry, and she was able to create a life for herself without the aid of a man. This is something that was not very common in her day, and I believe that she should be remembered for this progressive choice.
Whether or not everyone agrees with her metaphysical analyses or her stance on religion, it can be argued that her stance on women’s rights should be considered universal. The equality that she was fighting for should be remembered, and her more influential works could be a great addition to the syllabus. I truly believe that any future class will enjoy reading some of her works and that they will be able to further understand the history of modern philosophy by having Mary Astell’s writing in their repertoire.