Article October 4, 1999 Issue

DEFENDER OF WOMANHOOD

An advocate of freedom for all

By Tony Lobl

As the vital role of women in culture, business, art, sports, and politics is celebrated in this final year of the century, Mary Baker Eddy is increasingly being recognized as a pioneer with an enduring and powerful message that is still relevant.

Mary Baker Eddy's historic accomplishments were achieved in many fields traditionally dominated by men. Her achievements as author, publisher, healer, teacher, public speaker, spiritual discoverer, and religious founder were so remarkable that at the time of her passing in 1910 she was one of the best-known women in the United States.

Science and Health—and the healing system it outlines—has touched the lives of both men and women ever since its first printing. This book was penned by a woman who saw the essential contribution of womanhood in opposing materialism, which she understood to be the primary cause of sin and suffering. In this book she writes: "Materialistic hypotheses challenge metaphysics to meet in final combat. In this revolutionary period, like the shepherdboy with his sling, woman goes forth to battle with Goliath" (p. 268).

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