"If all men are born free, how is it that all women are born slaves?"

This quote by Mary Astell is a powerful declaration that talks to the inequality between men and women in society. It questions why, if all males are born free, females are born into a state of thrall and oppression. Astell is highlighting the injustice of the patriarchal system that has been in place for centuries, and the reality that women have been denied the exact same rights and liberties as males. She is challenging the status quo and calling for a more equitable society where ladies are dealt with as equals. This quote is a suggestion that we should continue to fight for gender equality and work towards a world where all people are truly free.