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The Exceptions

Nancy Hopkins and the fight for women in science

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The Exceptions

By: Kate Zernike
Narrated by: Kathe Mazur
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About this listen

 ‘Outstanding’ Bonnie Garmus, bestselling author of Lessons in Chemistry

The remarkable untold story of how a group of sixteen determined women used the power of the collective and the tools of science to inspire ongoing radical change. This is a triumphant account of progress, whilst reminding us that further action is needed.

These women scientists entered the work force in the 1960s during a push for affirmative action. Embarking on their careers they thought that discrimination against women was a thing of the past and that science was a pure meritocracy. Women were marginalized and minimized, especially as they grew older, their contributions stolen and erased.

Written by the Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist who broke the story in 1999 for The Boston Globe, when the Massachusetts Institute of Technology made the astonishing admission that it discriminated against women on its faculty, The Exceptions is an intimate narrative which centres on Nancy Hopkins – a surprisingly reluctant feminist who became a hero to two generations of women in science.

In uncovering an erased history, we are finally introduced to the hidden scientists who paved the way for collective change. Biological Sciences Gender Studies Medical Professionals & Academics Science Science & Technology Social Sciences Technology

Critic reviews

'Outstanding' (Bonnie Garmus, bestselling author of Lessons in Chemistry)
All stars
Most relevant
This is a great book describing the pervasive marginalization of women in academia. In 2023, some of the stories resonate as much today as they did when the story is set. There has been a lot of progress but the struggle for women in academic roles is still difficult. This book helps one understand why and makes the struggle easier!

Mandatory reading for women in academic life!

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Enjoyed it. Shocking story in places, but inspiring. Felt the beginning 50% of the book, in particular, would have benefitted from an edit to shorten.

Inspiring

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