Human Rights

The Risky Rhetoric of Female Risk Aversion

Foundations, corporations, multilateral organizations, and others promoting economic development are increasingly targeting women, in part because women are seen as less likely to engage in risky behavior and more likely to use money prudently. But this stereotype, although seemingly beneficial, can lead to discrimination against women and produce unequal outcomes.

By Sarah Kaplan & Natassia Walley Spring 2016

The conversation about how women can be included more productively in the economy has been amplifying exponentially over the past few years. “Invest in women” is now a common rallying cry for corporations, multilateral organizations, NGOs, and banks. Goldman Sachs, for example, has its “10,000 Women” initiative to provide support for female entrepreneurs, and Dell created a “Women’s Entrepreneur Network” connecting women entrepreneurs around the globe. To make the case for these…

To read this article and start a full year of unlimited online access, subscribe now!

Already a subscriber?

Need to register for your premium online access,
which is included with your paid subscription?

Support SSIR’s coverage of cross-sector solutions to global challenges.
Help us further the reach of innovative ideas. Donate today.

Read more stories by Natassia Walley & Sarah Kaplan.