Hello there,
I’m thrilled to share with you the latest episode of our Courage to Lead podcast series, where we had the privilege of hosting the brilliant Professor Cordelia Fine. A philosopher of science, psychologist, and writer, Cordelia’s work on gender differences is both enlightening and thought-provoking.
Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:
1. The First Experience of Leadership: Cordelia believes that our first experience of leadership begins at birth, emphasizing the role of caregiver-baby interactions in shaping our cognitive, social, emotional, and moral development.
2. Challenging Gender Stereotypes: Cordelia’s book, “Delusions of Gender,” is a deep dive into the scientific evidence behind gender differences. She challenges popular views and stereotypes, making academic ideas accessible to everyone.
3. The Journey to Professorship: Cordelia’s path to becoming a professor was unconventional, filled with periods in and out of academia. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of having a safety net.
4. Inherited Resources in Human Development: In her book “Testosterone Rex,” Cordelia explores the complexities of the relationship between hormones and behavior. She emphasizes that we inherit not just genes and hormones, but also external resources like caregivers, peers, and cultural artifacts.
5. Closing Gender Gaps: Cordelia highlights the closing or reversing of gender gaps over time, attributing these changes to gendered environments and cultural influences rather than genetic factors.
6. The Importance of a Council of Advisers: Drawing from her experience, Cordelia suggests having an informal council of advisers or a “critical friend” to help prevent making unwise decisions.
I hope these insights spark your curiosity and inspire you to listen to the full episode. Cordelia’s wisdom and courage to challenge the status quo are truly inspiring.
You can find Cordelia’s books, “Delusions of Gender” and “Testosterone Rex,” at reputable booksellers and online platforms. Remember, supporting authors by purchasing from legitimate sources is crucial.
Here is the link to this podcast:
Stay tuned for more exciting episodes of Courage to Lead. Until then, keep learning and leading!
Best, Allan Sicard