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Introduces essays about women in science, published in a special issue of the journal "Minerva." Issues of inequality; Exploration of the social structure of science and its receptivity to women; Research on the state of women in science in contrasting social, political and economic systems in Europe, North America, South America and Asia.

This article considers the situation of women in science in Germany. We argue that scientific organizations play a crucial role in shaping science careers, often with different consequences for men and women. To sustain the argument, we offer a study of the careers of male and female scientists in the Max Planck Society. Our findings show that external support increases career options and opportunities for men, but not for women scientists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Women make up about ten per cent of the scientists and engineers in Japan. The aim of this essay is to make clear why, even in the year 2001, there are so few women in these disciplines. I will suggest that the socio-economic structure and gender ideology of Japan since the Second World War is responsible for this shortage which is often erroneously attributed to the cultural traditions of feudal Japan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This essay considers gender in relation to Brazilian science and technology. It reviews leading studies in the field, and offers brief biographies of pioneering women in science. While there is still much room for improvement, the essay suggests that the situation of women in science experienced significant progress during the closing decades of the twentieth century. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Science is an intensely social activity. Professional relationships are essential for scientific success and mentors are indispensable for professional growth. Despite the scientific ethos of universalism and inclusion, American women scientists frequently experience isolation and exclusion at some time during their academic career. By contrast, male scientists enjoy informal but crucial social networks. Female scientists develop necessary strategies and defences, but many leave or achieve less success in science when deprived of necessary interpersonal connections. There is indication that change within departments is occurring, but this is dependent upon institutional leadership. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduces a special issue of the journal "Minerva," about women in science. Women's encounters with prejudice and disadvantage in the course of their careers; Implementation of policies that are intended to make certain choices compatible with the conduct of active scientific lives; Authors contributing to the issue.