In a striking example of mansplaining, neuroscientist Dr. Mia Thompson recently recounted an encounter at a professional conference that left her both amused and frustrated. While engaging in casual conversation with a male attendee, he suggested that she check out a paper authored by Dr. Thompson, completely oblivious to the fact that she was indeed the person behind the research he was referencing.
Dr. Thompson, an associate professor of clinical pain neuroscience at the University of Southern Australia, shared her experience on social media, highlighting the need for awareness in academic settings. “Conference goers, please remember that not everyone you speak with is uninformed,” she tweeted. “I was told to read a paper by Thompson et al. on pain.” Then, with a touch of sass, she delivered the ultimate comeback: “I. Am. Thompson.”
The response stunned him, leading to a moment of silence and an awkward attempt to backtrack, which ultimately resulted in laughter between them. Dr. Thompson noted that while she didn’t expect him to know her, it was his patronizing tone that really struck a nerve. She emphasized that it’s critical not to assume others lack knowledge, especially in a professional environment like a conference. “We all mess up sometimes (me included), but it’s essential to learn from these interactions,” she advised.
After sharing her story online, Dr. Thompson was overwhelmed by the flood of responses from women recounting their own experiences with mansplaining. “It was such a unique moment to say, ‘Wait a second, I’m the one you just mentioned,’” she reflected in an interview. She believes that while the man might not have meant any harm, it’s vital to address biases when they occur. “If we don’t speak up, people won’t learn,” she stated.
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Conclusion
In summary, Dr. Mia Thompson’s experience serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing expertise, particularly in professional settings. By sharing her story, she encourages others to confront mansplaining and promote more respectful dialogue.