Abstract: Mary Wollstonecraft’s seminal work, “A Vindication of the Rights of Woman” laid the foundation for modern feminist thought by advocating for gender equality through rational education and social reform. This research critically analyses Wollstonecraft’s concept of gender equality as articulated in the text and examines its enduring relevance within contemporary feminist discourse. By scrutinizing her arguments on education, women’s rights, and social roles, the study explores how her ideas can be adapted to address ongoing gender equality challenges in the 21st century, including barriers in access to education and persistent gender stereotypes. Furthermore, the research investigates Wollstonecraft’s philosophical influence on modern feminist movements and policy frameworks aimed at achieving gender equity, highlighting the continuity and evolution of her legacy. Additionally, it assesses the alignment and divergence of Wollstonecraft’s vision with contemporary debates surrounding intersectionality, inclusivity, and the fluidity of gender identities, recognizing that modern feminist theory has expanded beyond binary gender constructs. This comprehensive analysis situates Wollstonecraft’s work as both a historical cornerstone and a dynamic reference point, emphasizing the ways in which her call for equality through education and reason remains vital for informing current feminist praxis and social justice initiatives. Ultimately, the study underscores the significance of revisiting Wollstonecraft’s ideas to enrich and challenge contemporary understandings of gender equality, contributing to a nuanced dialogue that bridges Enlightenment-era advocacy with the complexities of modern gender politics.
Keywords: Gender equality, Feminist educational philosophy, Enlightenment thought, 21st Century Education.
Title: CONTRIBUTIONS OF MARY WOLLSTONECRAFT: RETHINKING OF EDUCATIONAL IDEAS AND GENDER EQUALITY IN THE 21ST CENTURY
Author: Pinaki Das
International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research
ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)
Vol. 13, Issue 3, July 2025 - September 2025
Page No: 225-231
Research Publish Journals
Website: www.researchpublish.com
Published Date: 21-August-2025
