2. Women in Enlightenment Science

During the Enlightenment, roughly the 17th to 18th centuries, women began to make notable contributions to science, despite facing significant barriers. Figures like Émilie du Châtelet and Maria Sibylla Merian challenged societal norms, engaging in scientific inquiry and publishing their work. They often operated within informal networks, conducting experiments or observing nature. While overshadowed by their male counterparts, their efforts helped pave the way for future generations of women in science, highlighting the importance of inclusion and diversity in scientific advancement. This period was foundational in recognizing women's roles in the field, though it remained largely male-dominated.