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The Simplest Question I Asked My Students — Until One Woman Answered
A classroom debate about gender, genetics, and the uncomfortable assumptions we rarely question
I have always had an uncanny habit of trying to arouse the curiosity of my students. Sometimes, I would deliberately introduce a question that appeared simple, hoping it would provoke a little argument and encourage them to think beyond the obvious. This particular day was no different, except that what began as a seemingly harmless question soon developed into a fascinating debate.
Growing up in a society that was only mildly patriarchal and shaped by a Christian worldview, I had always regarded gender equality and equity in a positive light. Men and women were understood to be equal in worth and dignity, even though they had different biological roles and responsibilities. I had never considered those differences sufficient grounds for declaring one sex superior to the other.
So, when I posed the question, “Which gender is superior?”, I expected the young men to beat their chests confidently while the ladies responded with greater restraint. Perhaps there would be a few arguments, some laughter, and a predictable exchange of opinions before we returned to the day’s lesson.
