Programmed Inequality by Marie Hicks

Last updated: Sep 5, 2023

Summary of Programmed Inequality by Marie Hicks

Programmed Inequality by Marie Hicks is a comprehensive exploration of the gendered history of computing in Britain. The book delves into the experiences of women in the field of computing from the 1940s to the 1970s, highlighting the systemic discrimination and inequality they faced.

Hicks begins by examining the role of women in the early days of computing during World War II. Women were initially seen as ideal candidates for computer programming jobs, as the work was considered routine and low-status. However, as the field grew and became more prestigious, men began to dominate the industry, pushing women out of positions of power and relegating them to lower-level roles.

The author explores the ways in which gender bias was perpetuated within the computing industry. She discusses how women were often excluded from educational opportunities and discouraged from pursuing careers in computing. Additionally, Hicks highlights the gendered division of labor within the industry, with women being assigned to more menial tasks while men were given more challenging and intellectually stimulating work.

Hicks also examines the impact of automation on women's employment in the computing industry. As computers became more advanced and automated, the need for human programmers decreased. This led to a decline in job opportunities for women, as they were often the first to be laid off or replaced by machines.

The book also delves into the role of trade unions in advocating for women's rights in the computing industry. Hicks discusses the efforts of organizations such as the Association of Scientific, Technical, and Managerial Staffs (ASTMS) to fight for equal pay and better working conditions for women. However, she also highlights the limitations of these efforts, as many unions were still dominated by men and failed to fully address the unique challenges faced by women in the field.

Overall, Programmed Inequality provides a comprehensive and eye-opening account of the gendered history of computing in Britain. Hicks sheds light on the systemic discrimination and inequality faced by women in the industry, and highlights the need for continued efforts to address these issues and create a more inclusive and equitable computing field.

1. The Gender Bias in Early Computing

In "Programmed Inequality," Marie Hicks explores the gender bias that existed in early computing and how it shaped the industry. She highlights how women were initially seen as ideal candidates for computer programming jobs due to the perception that it was a low-status clerical task. However, as the field gained prestige and higher salaries, men gradually took over these roles, pushing women out of the industry.

This insight is profound because it sheds light on the systemic biases that have persisted in the technology sector. Understanding this history helps us recognize the importance of creating inclusive environments and equal opportunities for women in computing today. By addressing these biases, we can work towards a more diverse and equitable industry.

2. The Impact of World War II on Women in Computing

Hicks also delves into the significant role women played in computing during World War II. With men being drafted into the military, women were recruited to work on code-breaking and other computational tasks. This period marked a turning point for women in computing, as they proved their capabilities and contributed to important technological advancements.

This takeaway is actionable because it highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing the contributions of women in technology. By acknowledging the historical significance of women's involvement in computing, we can challenge stereotypes and biases that still exist today. Encouraging and supporting women in pursuing careers in technology can lead to greater innovation and diversity in the field.

3. The Role of Government Policies in Gender Inequality

Hicks explores how government policies played a significant role in perpetuating gender inequality in computing. For example, in the UK, the government's decision to classify computer programming as a low-skilled job led to lower wages and limited career advancement for women. These policies reinforced the notion that computing was a men's domain, further marginalizing women in the industry.

This insight is profound because it highlights the importance of policy changes in addressing gender inequality in technology. By advocating for policies that promote equal pay, career advancement, and opportunities for women in computing, we can create a more inclusive and diverse industry.

4. The Importance of Recognizing Hidden Figures

"Programmed Inequality" emphasizes the need to recognize the contributions of women who were often overlooked or forgotten in the history of computing. Hicks highlights the work of women like Kathleen Booth and Stephanie Shirley, who made significant contributions to the field but were not given the recognition they deserved.

This takeaway is actionable because it encourages us to actively seek out and amplify the voices and achievements of women in technology. By acknowledging their contributions, we can challenge the narrative that computing is a male-dominated field and inspire future generations of women to pursue careers in technology.

5. The Impact of Gender Stereotypes on Career Choices

Hicks discusses how gender stereotypes influenced career choices and limited opportunities for women in computing. The perception that programming was a "masculine" activity led to the exclusion of women from the field. Additionally, societal expectations and biases pushed women towards more "feminine" roles, such as computer operators, rather than programming.

This insight is profound because it highlights the need to challenge and break down gender stereotypes in technology. By promoting diverse role models and providing equal opportunities for women in all areas of computing, we can encourage more women to pursue careers in programming and other technical roles.

6. The Role of Education in Addressing Gender Inequality

Hicks emphasizes the importance of education in addressing gender inequality in computing. She discusses how educational institutions played a role in perpetuating biases by limiting access to computer science education for women. By excluding women from these programs, they were effectively denied the opportunity to enter the field.

This takeaway is actionable because it highlights the need for inclusive and accessible computer science education. By providing equal opportunities for women to learn and excel in computing, we can bridge the gender gap in the industry and create a more diverse and innovative workforce.

7. The Long-Term Consequences of Gender Inequality

"Programmed Inequality" explores the long-term consequences of gender inequality in computing. Hicks argues that the exclusion of women from the industry has led to a lack of diverse perspectives and hindered technological progress. By limiting the participation of women, the industry has missed out on valuable contributions and innovations.

This insight is profound because it highlights the importance of diversity in technology. By addressing gender inequality and creating inclusive environments, we can tap into a wider range of perspectives and experiences, leading to more innovative and impactful solutions.

8. The Need for Collective Action

Hicks emphasizes the need for collective action to address gender inequality in computing. She highlights the importance of organizations, policymakers, and individuals coming together to challenge biases, advocate for change, and create inclusive environments.

This takeaway is actionable because it encourages everyone to play a role in creating a more equitable industry. By supporting initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion, speaking out against biases, and actively working towards equal opportunities for all, we can contribute to a more inclusive and successful technology sector.