The ascent of women in American society is among the past half century's most significant developments, with implications that reach beyond US borders. The statistics themselves are stunning. There may be a distinct perspective that women bring to key professions such as law, medicine, and business. But the biggest gain from the advance of women is simply the fuller realization of individual human potential as gender barriers fall.
Challenges come in the wake of progress.
Many colleges in the US are worried about declining numbers of male students. Certainly, efforts to encourage young intellects need to focus on both genders. And there's the perennial question of professional ambitions versus family. Also, progress can be very slow in some arenas. Women hold few leadership posts in Congress.