This article explores the intriguing connection between Betty Friedan's groundbreaking work, "The Feminine Mystique," and her earlier foray into science journalism with an article on climate change. Nearly a year before publishing her seminal book that catalyzed the second wave of feminism, Friedan penned "The Coming Ice Age," detailing scientists Maurice Ewing and William L. Donn's theories on polar wandering and the cycles of ice ages. Despite initially facing skepticism for her lack of scientific background and disagreements over the article's tone, Friedan's piece was eventually published in Harper's Magazine, capturing the public's imagination with its accessible narrative style. This experience in reporting complex scientific ideas and the drama surrounding new theories not only sharpened Friedan's journalistic skills but also paved the way for her later feminist writings. By blending storytelling with scientific inquiry, Friedan managed to make intricate theories understandable and engaging for a general audience, a technique she would adeptly use in "The Feminine Mystique" to connect with and inspire her readers. Her journey from a curious journalist exploring climate change theories to an influential feminist writer highlights the unexpected ways in which different interests and experiences can converge to foster groundbreaking ideas and societal change.

Subtopics:
- Connection between "The Coming Ice Age" article and "The Feminine Mystique."
- Betty Friedan's background and her path from science journalism to feminist writing.
- The theory of polar wandering and its prediction of a new ice age by scientists Maurice Ewing and William L. Donn.
- Journalism challenges faced by Friedan in publishing "The Coming Ice Age."
- Influence of Friedan's science journalism on her style and approach in "The Feminine Mystique."