Ruby

About Ruby

Posts by Ruby Stones:

June 28 2025

Women Shouldn’t Be Bossy? Reframing Assertiveness

The word “bossy” is often used to describe women who speak up, take charge, or express their opinions confidently. But why is assertiveness praised in men and criticized in women? This double standard limits opportunities for women in leadership, business, and beyond.

In this article, we’ll explore how society labels assertive women as “bossy,” what research says about assertiveness, and why reframing this idea is key to building fairer workplaces and communities.

assets_task_01jypqve0pfe283zwgnn68pnvw_1750962467_img_1

Why Assertive Women Get Called Bossy

The stereotype that women shouldn’t be assertive comes from old beliefs about gender roles. Traditionally, women were expected to be kind, quiet, and supportive, while men were seen as natural leaders.

When a woman speaks firmly or leads with confidence, people may see her as “bossy” or “aggressive.” In contrast, a man showing the same behavior is often called “strong” or “decisive.”

A 2014 Ban Bossy campaign, supported by Sheryl Sandberg and the Girl Scouts, highlighted how calling girls “bossy” can stop them from wanting to lead. According to their research, by middle school, girls are less likely than boys to see themselves as leaders because they fear being disliked or judged.

What Assertiveness Really Means

Assertiveness is the ability to express your thoughts, needs, and feelings clearly and respectfully. It’s a key skill for healthy communication, leadership, and personal success.

Assertiveness helps people:

Set boundaries
Share ideas confidently
Resolve conflicts fairly
Build strong relationships

Research shows that assertiveness is linked to better mental health and stronger job performance (Speed et al., 2018, Journal of Applied Psychology). Importantly, assertiveness is not about being rude or pushy. It’s about balance—speaking up without stepping on others.

The Double Standard in the Workplace

Studies show that when women show assertiveness at work, they may face backlash. A 2015 study in Psychological Science found that women who negotiated for higher pay or promotions were more likely to be seen as “demanding” or “unlikable” compared to men who did the same thing.

This double standard creates challenges:
Women may hesitate to speak up in meetings.
Female leaders may feel pressure to soften their tone.
Assertive women may be judged more harshly than assertive men.

Changing this requires organizations and individuals to rethink how they view leadership and communication.

Reframing Assertiveness: The Way Forward

It’s time to stop labeling women as “bossy” and start seeing assertiveness for what it really is—a strength. Here’s how we can reframe the conversation:

Value assertiveness in all genders. Recognize that clear, respectful communication helps teams and communities.

Teach assertiveness skills. Encourage boys and girls to speak up and express themselves confidently from a young age.

Challenge bias. Be aware of how we react to assertive women, and check if we’d feel the same about a man in that situation.

Support women leaders. Give women the space and respect to lead in their own style.

FAQ

Q1: Is assertiveness the same as being bossy?

No. Assertiveness means expressing yourself confidently and respectfully. Bossiness implies being controlling or rude, which is not the same.

Q2: Why do assertive women face more criticism?

Because of gender stereotypes that expect women to be gentle and agreeable. When women act outside these expectations, they are judged unfairly.

Q3: How can women stay assertive without being labeled bossy?

Focus on clear, respectful communication. But remember, the problem isn’t the woman—it’s the bias. Changing perceptions takes effort from everyone.

Q4: Does assertiveness help in leadership?

Yes. Assertive leaders build trust, communicate well, and resolve conflicts effectively.

Sources

Speed, B. C., et al. (2018). Assertiveness training: A forgotten evidence-based treatment. Journal of Applied Psychology, 103(9), 991–1003. https://doi.org/10.1037/apl0000312

Bowles, H. R., & Babcock, L. (2015). How can women escape the compensation negotiation dilemma? Psychological Science, 26(2), 301–304.

Ban Bossy campaign. (2014). http://banbossy.com

Sign Up to Our newsletter

June 28 2025

Women Can’t Be Funny? The Joke’s On You!

Ruby Blogs, Women 0

There’s a common myth that women aren’t as funny as men. This idea has been repeated in media, comedy clubs, and even workplaces for decades. But when you look at the facts—and the history of comedy—you’ll see that the claim doesn’t hold up.

In this article, let’s explore where this myth comes from, what research says about humor and gender, and meet some of the women who’ve reshaped the comedy world.

Where Did This Myth Come From?

The idea that “women aren’t funny” has been around for generations. In the past, men often dominated public spaces like comedy clubs, TV, and film. Women’s humor, when it appeared, was often dismissed as “cute” or “silly” rather than clever or sharp.

Cultural expectations played a big role. For centuries, society expected women to be polite, modest, and serious. Meanwhile, humor—especially bold or edgy humor—was seen as a “male” trait.

In 2007, a controversial essay by Vanity Fair titled “Why Women Aren’t Funny” fueled the debate. But comedians, researchers, and audiences have since proved how wrong that view is.

What Science Says About Humor and Gender

Do men and women differ in their ability to be funny? Research shows that both genders have the capacity for humor, but how humor is used and judged can differ.

A 2011 study in Psychonomic Bulletin & Review analyzed 28 studies on humor and found that men were judged as slightly funnier on average—but mainly because men submitted more jokes or used riskier humor styles.

Importantly, when jokes were shared without knowing who wrote them, the gender gap shrunk or disappeared (Greengross & Miller, 2011). This suggests bias, not ability, shapes perceptions of humor.

Humor is subjective. What one person finds funny, another may not—and that has nothing to do with gender.

Women Who Changed Comedy

Many women have proven time and again that they’re not just funny—they’re brilliant comedians who’ve changed the face of entertainment.

Lucille Ball

Lucille Ball was a legendary comedian and actress, best known for her iconic role in I Love Lucy. Her brilliant slapstick humor, expressive face, and perfect timing made her one of the most beloved figures in television history. Lucille broke new ground for women in comedy and remains an inspiration for generations of performers.

Joan Rivers

Joan Rivers was a pioneer in comedy, famous for her bold, no-filter humor. She broke barriers for women in stand-up with sharp jokes about celebrities, aging, and everyday struggles. Her fearless style and quick wit made her a lasting icon in the world of comedy.

Tina Fey

Tina Fey is a celebrated comedian, writer, and actress known for her smart, sharp humor. She gained fame on Saturday Night Live and created the hit show 30 Rock. Tina’s comedy blends clever wordplay, satire, and strong female perspectives, making her a role model for women in entertainment.

Ali Wong

Ali Wong is a standout comedian known for her raw, fearless, and hilarious take on topics like motherhood, relationships, and identity. Her hit specials Baby Cobra and Hard Knock Wife made her a global star, celebrated for her bold storytelling and sharp humor. Ali’s comedy connects deeply with audiences, breaking stereotypes and inspiring many.

Phoebe Waller-Bridge

Phoebe Waller-Bridge is a brilliant comedian, writer, and actress best known for creating Fleabag and Killing Eve. Her humor is sharp, dark, and deeply honest, often exploring complex themes like love, loss, and identity. Phoebe’s unique voice and fearless storytelling have earned her critical acclaim and made her a powerful figure in modern comedy.

These women, and many more, prove that comedy has never been about gender—it’s about skill, timing, and perspective.

Why This Myth Needs to Go

Saying “women aren’t funny” isn’t just wrong—it limits creativity. When people believe this myth, it:

Discourages young girls from trying comedy

Limits opportunities for women in writing rooms, clubs, and film

Fuels unfair bias in judging talent

Comedy is stronger when it reflects all voices. Breaking the stereotype means giving everyone a chance to share their humor.

FAQ

Q1: Are men naturally funnier than women?

No. Studies show that any small differences come from social factors and bias—not ability.

Q2: Why do people still believe women aren’t funny?

Because of old stereotypes, fewer women in high-profile comedy roles in the past, and bias in judging humor.

Q3: Do women use a different kind of humor?

Some studies suggest women may use more self-deprecating or relationship-based humor, but this varies by person—not gender.

Q4: Who are some famous funny women today?

Tina Fey, Ali Wong, Amy Schumer, Mindy Kaling, Wanda Sykes, and many more.

Sources

Greengross, G., & Miller, G. (2011). Humor ability reveals intelligence, predicts mating success, and is higher in males. Psychonomic Bulletin & Review, 18(2), 231–238. https://doi.org/10.3758/s13423-011-0045-4

Vanity Fair (2007). Why Women Aren’t Funny.

Martin, R. A. (2007). The Psychology of Humor: An Integrative Approach.

Sign Up to Our newsletter

June 28 2025

Women Are Bad At Math? Here’s What The Numbers Say

Ruby Women 0

The idea that women are naturally bad at math has been around for centuries. From classrooms to workplaces, this stereotype has influenced how society views girls’ and women’s abilities in math and science. But what do the actual numbers and research say? Are women really worse at math, or is this just another outdated myth?

This article explores what studies show about gender and math performance, and why it’s time to move beyond these harmful beliefs.

Where the Stereotype Came From

The belief that women are bad at math comes from old social ideas—not science. In many parts of the world, girls and women were discouraged from studying math or taking on technical careers. This limited their access to education and opportunities.

Over time, the lack of women in math-heavy fields was wrongly seen as proof that they weren’t good at it. In truth, the gap was created by culture and discrimination—not ability.

What Research Says About Gender and Math Ability

Modern research proves that women and men perform similarly in math.

A large study published in Science (Hyde et al., 2008) reviewed math test scores of over 7 million students in the U.S. The result? No significant difference between boys and girls in math performance.

A 2020 report from UNESCO also confirms that women perform as well as men in math when given equal learning opportunities.

The Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) data shows that in many countries, girls actually score higher than boys in math when they have the same educational support.

The numbers are clear: gender does not determine math skill.

Why the Gender Gap in Math Careers Still Exists

If women are just as good at math, why do fewer women work in math-heavy fields like engineering or data science?

Several factors contribute:

Stereotypes and bias. Girls are often told, directly or indirectly, that math is not for them.

Confidence gap. Studies show girls sometimes underestimate their math abilities, even when they perform as well as boys (OECD, 2015).

Lack of role models. Fewer visible women in math careers can make it harder for girls to picture themselves in those roles.

Workplace culture. Some math-heavy industries still have environments that are not supportive of women.

Breaking the Myth: Women in Math Today

Today, women continue to break barriers in math and related fields:

Maryam Mirzakhani

Maryam Mirzakhani was a brilliant Iranian mathematician who became the first woman to win the prestigious Fields Medal in 2014. Her groundbreaking work on the geometry and dynamics of Riemann surfaces and moduli spaces transformed modern mathematics. Mirzakhani’s contributions continue to inspire mathematicians and young women around the world.

Katherine Johnson

Katherine Johnson was a pioneering African-American mathematician whose complex calculations of orbital mechanics were critical to NASA’s space missions, including John Glenn’s historic flight. Her precise work in trajectory analysis helped ensure the success and safety of early human spaceflights. Johnson’s legacy broke barriers in both science and civil rights, inspiring generations in STEM fields.

Emmy Noether

Emmy Noether was a groundbreaking German mathematician whose work in abstract algebra and theoretical physics reshaped modern science. Her famous Noether’s Theorem revealed the deep connection between symmetries and conservation laws in physics. Noether’s insights laid the foundation for much of today’s mathematical physics and continue to influence research across disciplines.She is known as the “mother of modern algebra,” shaped mathematics in the 20th century.

These examples prove that math excellence is not about gender—it’s about passion, practice, and opportunity.

Why This Matters

Believing that women are bad at math can harm both individuals and society. When girls are discouraged from math, the world misses out on talented scientists, engineers, and innovators.

Encouraging girls in math helps create a stronger, smarter future for everyone.

FAQ

Q1: Are women worse at math than men?

No. Studies show no natural difference in math ability between men and women. Differences in performance are linked to culture, confidence, and opportunity.

Q2: Why do fewer women work in math-heavy jobs?

Because of stereotypes, lack of role models, and sometimes unfriendly work environments—not because of lower ability.

Q3: Do girls perform worse in math at school?

No. In many countries, girls score just as well as boys, and sometimes better, in math tests.

Q4: What can help close the gap?

Encouraging girls in STEM, providing mentorship, and challenging stereotypes can help close the gender gap in math fields.

Sources

Hyde, J. S., et al. (2008). Gender similarities characterize math performance. Science, 321(5888), 494-495. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1160364

OECD. (2015). The ABC of Gender Equality in Education. https://doi.org/10.1787/9789264229945-en

UNESCO. (2020). Cracking the code: Girls’ and women’s education in STEM. http://uis.unesco.org/en/topic/women-science

Sign Up to Our newsletter

June 24 2025

Women Can’t Lead? These Women Prove Otherwise

Ruby Blogs 0

The idea that women can’t lead is an outdated myth. For years, society has wrongly believed that leadership belongs mostly to men. But history and modern times show us a different truth—women have always been powerful leaders. From politics to business, from science to social movements, women around the world have proven their leadership, often under harder conditions.

In this article, we highlight women who shattered stereotypes and led with vision, strength, and success.

Why the Myth Exists

The belief that women can’t lead comes from old social structures where men held most power in government, business, and other areas. For centuries, women were excluded from leadership roles.

This created the false idea that women don’t have the qualities needed for leadership—like confidence, strength, or decision-making skills. But these are not tied to gender. Leadership comes from ability, vision, and hard work, not whether someone is male or female.

Studies, such as a 2019 report from McKinsey & Company, show that companies with more women leaders perform better. The report found that gender-diverse leadership teams are 25% more likely to have above-average profitability.

Women Leaders Who Made History

Angela Merkel: Leading Europe’s Largest Economy

Angela Merkel served as the Chancellor of Germany from 2005 to 2021. She guided Germany through financial crises, led the EU during tough times, and was often called the world’s most powerful woman. Her calm, practical, and science-based leadership style won respect globally.

Jacinda Ardern: Leading With Empathy and Strength

As Prime Minister of New Zealand (2017–2023), Jacinda Ardern showed how compassion and decisiveness can work together. She was praised for her quick, kind, and effective leadership during crises like the Christchurch mosque attacks and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Malala Yousafzai: A Young Voice for Global Change

Malala became a leader at a young age, standing up for girls’ right to education in Pakistan and globally. Despite being attacked by extremists, she continued her work and became the youngest-ever Nobel Peace Prize winner. She shows that leadership is about courage and purpose.

Indra Nooyi: Breaking Barriers in Business.

Indra Nooyi was the CEO of PepsiCo from 2006 to 2018. She helped the company grow while focusing on health, sustainability, and innovation. Nooyi was one of the first women of color to lead a Fortune 500 company, proving women can lead in top business positions.

Why Women’s Leadership Matters

When women lead, they bring fresh ideas, diverse viewpoints, and inclusive solutions. A 2020 report from Harvard Business Review found that women in leadership often score higher than men in key skills like communication, teamwork, and resilience—traits that are essential in today’s fast-changing world.

When more women lead, everyone benefits:

Stronger businesses
Better decisions
More equal, fair societies

How to Support More Women in Leadership

To break down the myth that women can’t lead, we need to:

Encourage girls from a young age to see themselves as leaders.

Support women in the workplace through mentorship and equal opportunities.

Challenge outdated views that link leadership only to male traits.

Promote policies that help balance work and family life for all genders.

FAQ

Q1: Are women good leaders?

Yes. Research shows women are just as effective as men—and in some cases, women leaders score higher on skills like communication and teamwork.

Q2: Why aren’t there more women in leadership roles?

Barriers include old stereotypes, fewer opportunities, and work-life balance challenges—not a lack of talent.

Q3: Do companies with women leaders do better?

Yes. Studies show gender-diverse leadership teams often outperform others in profits and innovation.

Q4: How can we help more women become leaders?

By offering mentorship, equal pay, fair hiring practices, and encouraging leadership at all levels.

Sources

McKinsey & Company (2019). Diversity Wins: How Inclusion Matters. https://www.mckinsey.com

Harvard Business Review (2020). Research: Women Score Higher Than Men in Most Leadership Skills. https://hbr.org

World Economic Forum (2021). Global Gender Gap Report.

Sign Up to Our newsletter

June 24 2025

Women Are Not Strong? Breaking Physical Stereotypes

Ruby Women 0

The idea that women are not strong is one of the oldest and most harmful stereotypes. For centuries, society has linked strength to men and weakness to women. But science, sports, and real-life stories tell a different story. Today, more people are realizing that strength comes in many forms—and that women are just as capable of physical power as men.

This article looks at the truth about women’s strength, backed by facts, and celebrates women who break these outdated stereotypes.

Where Did the “Women Aren’t Strong” Myth Come From?

The belief that women are weak goes back to ancient times. In many cultures, men were expected to be warriors and protectors, while women were seen as caregivers. These roles shaped how people thought about physical strength.

For a long time, women were not encouraged—or even allowed—to join sports, the military, or physically demanding jobs. As a result, the false idea that women are naturally weak spread. But this idea has no basis in science.

What Science Says About Women and Strength

It’s true that on average, men have greater muscle mass due to higher testosterone levels. But that doesn’t mean women lack strength.

Women’s strength is often underestimated. A 2021 study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that women can build muscle and strength at similar rates to men when training properly.
Women excel in endurance. Research shows women often outperform men in ultra-endurance sports (long-distance running, swimming, cycling). A 2019 study in Sports Medicine found that women’s bodies are better at burning fat for fuel, giving them an advantage in long events.
Strength is about training, not gender. With proper exercise, nutrition, and support, women achieve impressive physical strength.

Women Who Shatter Strength Stereotypes

Throughout history and today, many women have proven that strength has no gender:

Serena William

One of the most powerful tennis players ever, known for her strength, speed, and skill on the court.

Tia-Clair Toomey

Six-time CrossFit Games champion, often called the fittest woman on Earth.

Ronda Rousey

Olympic judo medalist and former UFC champion who transformed women’s mixed martial arts.

Manal Rostom

Egyptian marathoner and mountaineer who proves that strength comes in all forms, breaking barriers for Muslim women in sports.

Why It’s Time to Drop the Stereotype

Strength is not just about how much someone can lift. It’s about resilience, endurance, and determination. Women show physical strength in countless ways—from sports to military service, firefighting, construction, and parenting.

Encouraging strength in girls and women builds confidence and health.
When women are given equal opportunities to train, they perform at elite levels.
Breaking this stereotype helps create fairer workplaces, sports, and societies.

It’s time to focus on what people can do, not what stereotypes say they can’t.

FAQ

Q1: Are women physically weaker than men?

On average, men have more muscle mass. But women are capable of building great strength and often excel in endurance. Strength depends more on training, diet, and mindset than gender.

Q2: Can women build muscle as easily as men?

Yes. Women can gain strength and muscle effectively with proper training. The rate of strength gain is similar when comparing relative progress.

Q3: Why do people still think women aren’t strong?

Old cultural beliefs, lack of visibility of strong women in media, and unequal opportunities in sports and physical jobs keep the stereotype alive.

Q4: How can we support women’s strength?

By encouraging girls in sports, promoting strong female role models, and giving women equal access to fitness and athletic opportunities.

Sources

Haizlip, K. M., et al. (2021). Sex differences in muscle fatigue and strength training. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 35(4), 987-996. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000003892

Hunter, S. K. (2014). Sex differences in human fatigability. Exercise and Sport Sciences Reviews, 42(3), 101–107.

Sports Medicine (2019). Sex differences in ultra-endurance performance. Sports Medicine, 49(4), 525–537.

Sign Up to Our newsletter

June 24 2025

Women Are Too Sensitive? Understanding Emotional Intelligence

Ruby Women 0

The idea that women are “too sensitive” is a stereotype that has shaped how society views women’s emotions. This label often overlooks the value of emotional awareness and understanding, qualities that are part of emotional intelligence (EI). But what does science say about sensitivity and EI? And how does emotional intelligence benefit everyone—regardless of gender?

This article explores the truth behind the stereotype and highlights the importance of emotional intelligence in today’s world.

Why People Say Women Are “Too Sensitive”

The stereotype that women are more emotional or sensitive than men has deep roots in history and culture. For centuries, emotions were seen as a weakness, especially in professional or leadership settings. Traits like empathy, compassion, and emotional expression were labeled as “female” and wrongly seen as signs of being less logical or capable.

In reality, sensitivity is not a weakness. It’s often a sign of emotional intelligence—the ability to recognize, understand, and manage one’s own emotions and those of others.

What Is Emotional Intelligence?

Emotional intelligence (EI), a term popularized by psychologist Daniel Goleman, includes:

Self-awareness: Recognizing your own emotions

Self-regulation: Managing your emotions in healthy ways

Empathy: Understanding how others feel

Social skills: Building good relationships

Motivation: Using emotions to guide positive actions

Research shows that emotional intelligence is not tied to gender. Both men and women can develop and use emotional intelligence (Petrides et al., 2004, Personality and Individual Differences).

What Science Says About Women, Men, and Emotions

Many studies have looked at emotional intelligence and gender. A 2016 study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that women tend to score higher on measures of empathy and interpersonal EI. This doesn’t mean women are “too sensitive.” Instead, it suggests that women may be more skilled in recognizing and responding to emotions in social situations.

Meanwhile, men may show strength in managing their own emotions or staying calm under stress. Both of these traits are important parts of emotional intelligence.

In short, EI strengths vary by person, not gender. The idea that women are “too sensitive” ignores the valuable emotional skills that contribute to leadership, teamwork, and well-being.

Why Emotional Intelligence Matters

Emotional intelligence is not just about feelings—it’s about success in life and work. People with strong EI tend to:

Handle stress better
Communicate more effectively
Resolve conflicts peacefully
Build stronger personal and professional relationships

In the workplace, studies show that leaders with high emotional intelligence create healthier, more productive teams (Goleman, 2013, Harvard Business Review).

Breaking the Stereotype

Labeling women as “too sensitive” is unfair and unhelpful. It discourages emotional openness and can silence valuable voices, especially in places like the workplace or politics.

Here’s what helps instead:

Value emotional intelligence in everyone. EI is key to good leadership and collaboration.

Teach EI skills early. Boys and girls benefit from learning how to understand and manage emotions.

Challenge old beliefs. Emotions are human, not gendered.

FAQ

Q1: Are women more emotional than men?

Not exactly. Research shows both men and women experience emotions deeply. Women may express emotions differently or be more attuned to others’ feelings.

Q2: Is emotional intelligence more common in women?

Some studies show women score higher in empathy, but both men and women can develop high emotional intelligence.

Q3: Does sensitivity mean weakness?

No. Sensitivity often reflects emotional awareness and empathy—both strengths, not weaknesses.

Q4: How can emotional intelligence help in the workplace?

It improves communication, teamwork, leadership, and helps handle stress and conflict.

Sources

Petrides, K. V., & Furnham, A. (2004). Gender differences in measured and self-estimated trait emotional intelligence. Personality and Individual Differences, 36(3), 719-729. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0191-8869(03)00102-8

Goleman, D. (2013). The focused leader. Harvard Business Review.

Thompson, R. J., et al. (2016). Emotional intelligence and gender. Frontiers in Psychology, 7, 1056. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2016.01056

Sign Up to Our newsletter

June 24 2025

Women Aren’t Good At Science? Meet The Female Pioneers

Ruby Women 0

There is a long-standing myth that women aren’t as good at science as men. This false belief has discouraged many girls and women from pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). But history tells a different story. Women have made major contributions to science, often in the face of discrimination and bias.

In this article, we highlight female pioneers who proved that talent and passion for science have nothing to do with gender.

Why This Myth Exists

The idea that women aren’t good at science comes from old beliefs, not facts. In the past, women were often blocked from studying science or working in labs. Many universities and scientific societies did not accept women.

As a result, fewer women had the chance to train as scientists. This lack of opportunity—not ability—created the false impression that women were not suited for science.

Today, studies show there is no difference in ability between men and women in science and math (Hyde et al., 2008, Science). The gap comes from access, encouragement, and culture—not skill.

Marie Curie

The woman who Changed physics and chemistry
Marie Curie is one of the most famous scientists in history. She discovered two new elements: polonium and radium.
First woman to win a Nobel Prize
First person to win two Nobel Prizes (Physics and Chemistry)

Her work on radioactivity laid the foundation for cancer treatments and nuclear energy. Despite her brilliance, Curie faced discrimination, low pay, and poor working conditions. Yet her discoveries changed science forever.

Rosalind Franklin

The women how detect the DNA
Rosalind Franklin played a key role in discovering the structure of DNA. Her X-ray images of DNA (especially the famous “Photo 51”) were crucial in showing that DNA is a double helix.

Franklin didn’t get credit during her lifetime. The Nobel Prize for the discovery went to Watson, Crick, and Wilkins. Today, Franklin is rightly recognized as a pioneer of genetics.

Katherine Johnson

The Human Computer Who Helped Send Humans to Space

Katherine Johnson was a brilliant mathematician at NASA. Her calculations helped send astronauts to the Moon and bring them home safely.

She worked at a time when both gender and racial barriers were strong. Still, Johnson’s work was key to the success of the U.S. space program. Her story became widely known thanks to the movie Hidden Figures (2016).

Other Women Who Changed Science

There are many more female pioneers who made history in science:

Ada Lovelace:

The first computer programmer, who wrote the first algorithm for Charles Babbage’s early machine.

Barbara McClintock:

Discovered “jumping genes” and won the Nobel Prize in 1983.

Jane Goodall:

Revolutionized our understanding of chimpanzees and primate behavior.

Chien-Shiung Wu:

A physicist who made important discoveries in nuclear physics and helped develop the Manhattan Project.

Why Female Scientists Matter Today

Women in science bring fresh ideas and different viewpoints. When science includes everyone, discoveries are stronger and solutions are better.

According to UNESCO (2021), women make up less than 30% of researchers worldwide. There is still work to do to close the gender gap. Encouraging girls in STEM, supporting female scientists, and breaking down barriers will create a brighter future for all.

FAQ

Q1: Are women as good at science as men?

Yes. Studies show no difference in natural ability between men and women in science or math. Gaps come from culture, not skill.

Q2: Why have fewer women worked in science in the past?

Because of discrimination and lack of access to education and jobs—not because of ability.

Q3: What can be done to support women in science?

Encouraging girls in STEM from a young age, offering mentorship, and creating equal opportunities in schools and workplaces help close the gap.

Q4: Who was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize?

Marie Curie. She was the first woman to win, and also the first person to win it twice.

Sources

Hyde, J. S., et al. (2008). Gender similarities characterize math performance. Science, 321(5888), 494-495. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1160364

UNESCO Institute for Statistics (2021). Women in Science. http://uis.unesco.org/en/topic/women-science

National Women’s History Museum. Profiles of women in science.

Text content

Sign Up to Our newsletter

June 24 2025

Women Talk More Than Men? What the Research Really Says

Ruby Blogs 0

Many people believe women talk more than men. This idea is common in jokes, TV shows, and everyday life. But is it really true? Let’s look at what science says about how much women and men talk. You might be surprised!

Where Did This Idea Come From?

For a long time, people have said that women talk too much. Some even believed women spoke thousands of words more than men every day.

One famous claim came from a book called The Female Brain (2006). It said women use about 20,000 words a day, while men use only 7,000. But scientists later found this number was not based on real studies.

In fact, a study from 2007 by Dr. Matthias Mehl showed something very different. His team recorded the daily conversations of nearly 400 people. They found that both men and women spoke about 16,000 words a day. Almost the same!

What Recent Research Shows

Modern studies tell us that women and men talk about the same amount overall.

A 2020 review of many studies found no big difference in the number of words men and women use. In some cases, men talk more—like in meetings or groups. In other cases, women may talk more—like with friends or family.

Here’s what matters:

Context matters. Where and with whom people are talking changes everything.

The topic matters. People speak more about things they care about, no matter their gender.

Personality matters. Extroverts talk more than introverts, whether they’re men or women.

Why the Stereotype Stays

If science shows women don’t talk more than men, why do people still think so?

Old beliefs. This idea has been around for centuries

Media and jokes. TV, movies, and jokes often repeat the idea.

Selective memory. People remember times when women talked more but forget times when men did.

These reasons keep the myth alive.

The Truth About Talking

Talking more does not mean better communication. Good communication is about:

✅ Listening well

✅ Speaking clearly

✅ Being kind and respectful

Men and women both have something important to say. We should listen to people, not to old myths.

FAQ

Do women really say 20,000 words a day and men only 7,000?

No. Studies show both men and women say about 16,000 words a day on average.

Do women talk more in all situations?

No. It depends on where they are and who they are with. Sometimes men talk more.

Why do people believe women talk more?

Because of old ideas, media, and how we notice and remember conversations.

Does talking more mean better communication?

No. Communication is about quality, not quantity.

Sources

Mehl, M. R. et al. (2007). Science. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1139940

Leaper, C., & Ayres, M. M. (2007). Personality and Social Psychology Review.

Park, S. et al. (2020). Personality and Social Psychology Review.