Invisible Women
FeminismSociology
Summary
Invisible Women is a groundbreaking examination of how data bias against women permeates nearly every aspect of modern life. Caroline Criado-Perez exposes the ways in which systems—from urban planning to medical research—are designed around a male default, with real consequences for women globally.
Key Themes
- Gender Data Gap: The systematic exclusion of women in data collection and analysis.
- Everyday Inequity: How urban design, workplace tools, and safety equipment disadvantage women.
- Healthcare Disparities: The lack of female representation in clinical trials and diagnostics.
Notable Quotes
“When we exclude half of humanity from the analysis, we risk creating a world that is literally less fit for women to live in.”
“Data is not just about numbers. It’s about whose voices count—and whose are ignored.”
Personal Reflection
This book was both eye-opening and infuriating. It made me question assumptions about neutrality in data and highlighted how even seemingly objective systems can reinforce gender inequality. It’s a call to action for more inclusive design, research, and policymaking.
Recommended For
- Professionals in data science, urban planning, and healthcare
- Advocates for gender equality and inclusive policy
- Anyone who wants to understand how bias is built into the world around us