I have already animadverted on the bad habits which females
acquire when they are shut up together; and, I think, that the
observation may fairly be extended to the other sex, till the
natural inference is drawn which I have had in view throughout --
that to improve both sexes they ought, not only in private
families, but in public schools, to be educated together. If
marriage be the cement of society, mankind should all be educated
after the same model, or the intercourse of the sexes will never
deserve the name of fellowship, nor will women ever fulfil the
peculiar duties of their sex, till they become enlightened
citizens, till they become free by being enabled to earn their
own subsistence, independent of men; in the same manner, I mean,
to prevent misconstruction, as one man is independent of another.
Nay, marriage will never be held sacred till women, by being
brought up with men, are prepared to be their companions rather
than their mistresses; for the mean doublings of cunning will
ever render them contemptible, whilst oppression renders them
timid. So convinced am I of this truth, that I will venture to
predict that virtue will never prevail in society till the
virtues of both sexes are founded on reason; and, till the
affections common to both are allowed to gain their due strength
by the discharge of mutual duties.
