Business Notes DISCRIMINATION

American business is full of tough bosses who boast that they "take no prisoners" and run their company "lean and mean." But Ann Hopkins' superiors at Price Waterhouse considered her too "macho" to become a partner at the giant accounting firm. Some even said the aggressive management consultant would be better off going to "charm school." While Hopkins had generated $35 million to $40 million in business, more than any of the other candidates for partner, the firm decided in 1983 not to promote her. She resigned and sued for sexual discrimination.

After seven years of litigation, including arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court, federal Judge Gerhard Gesell of Washington last week ordered Price Waterhouse to install Hopkins as a partner and to give her at least $350,000 in back pay. The firm has not yet said whether it will appeal the precedent- setting decision.