Are there feminist methodologies appropriate for the natural sciences and do they make a difference?

Abstract

Examination of the questions raised about feminist methodologies for the natural sciences reveals that answers are complex and dependent upon the feminist theory from which the methodology springs. The jumble of descriptors for feminist methodology — rejects dualisms, is based on women's experience, shortens the distance between observer and object of study, rejects unicausal, hierarchical approaches, unites application with problem — seem contradictory when portrayed as feminist methodology. They become much more understandable when viewed as a lumping together of possible methodological implications for science resulting from different feminist theories. Radical feminism, and particularly lesbian separatism, suggest strong reasons why we are not able to see the results of a feminist methodology. As long as oppression of women and patriarchy continue, it is unlikely that the effects of feminist methodologies derived from the feminist theories that challenge the status quo will be felt.