Practical philosophy

A number of universities would like to make the accomplishments of female philosophers not only more widely known but also elevated to “role model status” to help to resolve a gender crisis in the discipline (“Into the light: philosophy’s women”, News, 9 April). Would it also be relevant to adjust the discipline? That is, regardless of the philosopher’s gender or carefully chosen field of interest, any branch should have a direct import on the problematic lives of laypeople.

Neil Richardson
Kirkheaton