50 pages • 1 hour read
In a Different Voice: Psychological Theory and Women’s Development
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Book Brief
192
Book • Nonfiction
1980s
1982
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In In a Different Voice, Carol Gilligan argues that traditional psychological and moral development theories, particularly Lawrence Kohlberg’s, are biased toward a masculine approach, and she posits that women’s moral development centers around an ethic of care rather than an ethic of rights. Gilligan explores how women’s relational thinking contrasts with men’s individualistic perspectives, ultimately advocating for the recognition and inclusion of women’s voices in moral and developmental theories. The book addresses views on and experiences of abortion.
Informative
Contemplative
Inspirational
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
4,354 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
In a Different Voice by Carol Gilligan is praised for its pioneering perspective on female psychological development and its challenge to traditional male-centric theories. However, some critics argue that its methodology lacks empirical robustness. Overall, it remains influential in feminist theory and psychology for illuminating gender-specific cognitive differences.
Who Should Read In a Different Voice?
Readers drawn to In a Different Voice by Carol Gilligan often seek insights into gender studies, feminist theory, and developmental psychology. Those who enjoyed The Second Sex by Simone de Beauvoir or The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan will find similar value. Perfect for scholars exploring the complexities of female psychological development.
4,354 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Erik Erikson
Erik Erikson
A German American psychoanalyst and developmental psychologist noted for his theory of psychosocial development, emphasizing the role of identity and lifespan development through psychosocial crises.
Sigmund Freud
Sigmund Freud
An Austrian psychoanalyst known for his theories on psychosexual development, positing that separation from the mother is crucial to development, which Gilligan critiques for favoring independence over intimacy.
Lawrence Kohlberg
Lawrence Kohlberg
An American psychologist recognized for creating a stage theory of moral development that focuses on justice, which Gilligan challenges by arguing for the importance of relationships in moral reasoning.
Jean Piaget
Jean Piaget
A Swiss psychologist who contributed to understanding children's cognitive development through his stage theory, which influenced Kohlberg's model that Gilligan critiques in her work.
Lucretia Mott and Elizabeth Cady Stanton
Lucretia Mott and Elizabeth Cady Stanton
Abolitionists and women's rights activists who played pivotal roles in the early women's suffrage movement, whose advocacy for women's rights Gilligan references in relation to female moral development.
192
Book • Nonfiction
1980s
1982
Adult
18+ years
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