The geoethical legacy of Zonia Baber

Abstract

The history of science is punctuated by the unacknowledged contributions of women who, despite systemic barriers, fought for both knowledge and justice. Among them, the American teacher of geology and geography Zonia Baber (1862–1956) stands out not only for her advancements in geoscience education but, in parallel, for her relentless activism in defence of human rights, environmental preservation, and social equity. A fierce opponent of imperialism, racial oppression, and gender discrimination, she used her academic expertise as a platform for advocacy, recognising the inextricable link between geosciences and ethical responsibility. She worked within international networks to expose social injustices and the exploitation of both people and natural resources, promoting a vision of geosciences that served not only intellectual progress but also humanitarian and environmental causes. Simultaneously, her environmental engagement foreshadowed a modern geoconservation ethos, emphasising the need to safeguard geological heritage as both a scientific and cultural asset. This article contributes to a wider doctoral research project on public geological communication, which includes the recovery of overlooked histories of pioneering women in geosciences to help inspire girls to pursue scientific education. Framed within this broader context, Baber’s legacy is re-examined here through the lens of geoethics, demonstrating how her vision, rooted in the convergence of science, activism, and justice, offers a significant perspective for contemporary debates on the ethical role of the geosciences in shaping a more equitable and sustainable world.