As a faculty dean, I was constantly surprised over the years by the number of female academics who expressed reluctance to do my job. Why were they so reluctant? Why did they cite intense argument and personal criticism as significant deterrents? Focusing specifically on academic argument, and the crucial role of autonomy in academe, this paper will identify and explore two discursive orientations often found in university culture today that have the potential to limit autonomy. It is argued that their presence creates a peculiarly challenging environment for female academic leaders. Drawing on relevant philosophical literature and my own personal experience as a member of senior academic administration, the paper will examine the nature of the challenges entailed and the insights it may provide into females’ reluctance to become academic leaders. Challenges notwithstanding, it is hoped that the personal perspective brought to bear on the discussion will encourage female academics to see beyond potential barriers and to pursue leadership as a realistic, worthy option in their professional lives.

中文翻译：

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危险动作：做大学女院长的思考

作为一名学院院长，多年来，很多女性学者表示不愿意做我的工作，这让我一直感到惊讶。他们为何如此不情愿？为什么他们将激烈的争论和个人批评列为重要的威慑力量？本文特别关注学术争论和学术自主权的关键作用，将确定和探索当今大学文化中常见的两种可能限制自主权的话语取向。有人认为，她们的存在为女性学术领袖创造了一个特别具有挑战性的环境。借鉴相关哲学文献和我自己作为高级学术管理人员的个人经验，本文将研究所带来挑战的性质，以及它可能为女性不愿成为学术领导者提供的见解。