Miranda Spencer

In the following viewpoint, Miranda Spencer argues that the influence of brain structure in explaining gender differences is less extensive than some journalists suggest. She criticizes a television program that claimed to prove men and women have different abilities due to their biology, arguing that the evidence presented by ABC correspondent John Stossel was unbalanced and misleading. According to Spencer, the program ignored studies that indicated there is greater overlap than difference in the aptitudes of men and women. Spencer is a freelance reporter and editor.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. In Spencer’s opinion, how were the views of Gloria Steinem and Bella Abzug framed in the ABC program?
2. According to the author, how did Stossel “reinterpret” videotape of children playing with Mighty Morphin Power Ranger dolls?
3. How has...