Sex differences in ethical systems: A useful framework for interpreting communication research

Abstract

Carol Gilligan's thesis that women use a care orientation in structuring their ethical systems while men use a justice orientation in structuring their ethical systems was used as a framework for explaining conclusions drawn from selected experimental studies in psychology, sociology, and communication. Theoretical material from feminist literature as well as other sources were considered. Published and unpublished sources were reviewed. The selection of materials is suggestive of the usefulness of Gilligan's position as an interpretative framework. The dearth of studies including women as subjects was considered as the setting for the publication of Gilligan's book, In a Different Voice. Some critical considerations of Gilligan's position as well as possible alternative explanations and directions for future research are included.