A similarly plausible argument is that despite a lack of overtly regressive policies towards women in the West, there are still a number of cultural norms that influence their behaviour. Which is exactly the point the parent comment is making.
Also area's like India,when men and women are under more economic pressure, there is more gender equal distribution in fields.
I've had this explained to me as the "Nordic Paradox".
If women in Sweden are doing the same career choices as in Saudi Arabia, as a matter of fact one can rule out the society as a factor.
Unless you want to believe that Saudi Arabia and Sweden are equally oppressive to women.
It clearly must be something biological.