Rose Tyler: The ethics of care and the limit of agency

This article uses feminist moral theory to explore the ethical framework that underpins the 2005 revival of Doctor Who. Focusing on the character Rose, it argues that in contrast to the action heroine, Rose’s strengths are caring and compassion – traditionally feminine virtues. Exploring the degree to which such a characterisation might be considered empowering, the article concludes that, in the context of Doctor Who, acts of care, when carried out by women, serve to limit agency and restrict individual growth.