>How does one know what the correct target ratio is for their field? One can look at the distribution of m:f in the list of eligible applicants, or more genera

>How does one know what the correct target ratio is for their field? One can look at the distribution of m:f in the list of eligible applicants, or more generally in university graduate numbers. It will be subject to noise, but the 'natural' outcome should be at least in the same ballpark. >I have blind faith in the general equality of the sexes. I'm not saying I'm right, I fully acknowledge it's an article of faith. Blind faith is not necessary here. Nor is a belief in 'male superiority in certain fields'. I agree that given equal qualifications, gender should not affect performance to a great degree, yet affirmative action vastly skews recruitment to one side in this case and only makes sense if it turns out gender does affect performance and women are somehow vastly better (without this effect being picked up and accounted for by the market).