Each volume in the "Classics of Philosophy and Science" series is an annotated text prepared and edited with the aim of explaining key philosophical texts from the 17th century onwards. This translation of one of the most radical feminist tracts produced in 17th-century France has been provided with an introduction and notes. Poulain de la Barre adapted Descarte's philosophy to support claims that men's views of women were based on prejudice and custom, rather than reason or experience. He argued, like Marie de Gournay, that women are equal to men, and are capable of assuming all civil and ecclesiastical offices.