The article "Rich Bitch"examines how in reality television shows, especially in the Real Housewives shows,women are shown as objects of interest and fascination. The author explores the portrayal of rich women as opposed to rich men. The woman are shown as materialistic, fiscally irresponsible, fake, backstabbing and careless for the children.The men are not portrayed in this way. The author argues this materialistic, glamorized view of women is attractive to the impressionable female viewers.
One of the main issues the author focuses on is how the women defer their mothering roles to paid caretakers. Even though these women are "deemed" to be housewives, by no sense of the meaning are they truly. An interesting aspect to the show is how each of the women whom the show focuses on have children, except for one. This women regrets not having a child and feels as though she is deprived in some way. This is an interesting reality considering the other women who have children and show very little interest in them
The issues with these shows is the false expectations they create for their viewers. These women are considered to be working mothers although they work very little. They also experience great wealth even though their work ethic is questionable. Despite the name reality television, these women's lives are surreal. Their lavish upper-class lives create false expectations and role models that are more like runway models than role models.
Thursday, October 29, 2015
Gendered packages
There is no hiding the fact that packaging in toy stores, and any retail store for that matter are gendered. The packaging of items targeting females are pink and glittery. The packages targeting males tend to be darker colors such as blue or navy green. This phenomena is interesting, and can be used to delve deeper into gender roles.
The video of Riley in the toy store is revealing. Even as a child not even 5 years old in appearance is able to comprehend the gendered packaging. She wonders why the "girly" stuff is pink and princessy, while the male items are superheores and blue. Riley's explanation of this is quite primitive, as she is a child. She states the companies make the toys those colors to trick the guys into liking the blue superhero items, and girls into the pink Princess items. However, it is not quite so simple.
Obviously, the companies whom make these toys are in the business of earning profit, not gendering toys or tricking children. So, as a opposed to tricking children, the companies believe they maximize their chance of having an item selected by a man in blue packaging, and a female in pink packaging. This is exceedingly telling in itself. The fact that companies who have researched these objectives can quantifiably state that the packaging of items in this way is successful. The real issue is that children whom are male favor the male targeting items, and vice versa for females. As opposed to tricking children, the companies are catering to the children's desires.
An item which we have discussed multiple times, Barbie is a good example.
The video of Riley in the toy store is revealing. Even as a child not even 5 years old in appearance is able to comprehend the gendered packaging. She wonders why the "girly" stuff is pink and princessy, while the male items are superheores and blue. Riley's explanation of this is quite primitive, as she is a child. She states the companies make the toys those colors to trick the guys into liking the blue superhero items, and girls into the pink Princess items. However, it is not quite so simple.
Obviously, the companies whom make these toys are in the business of earning profit, not gendering toys or tricking children. So, as a opposed to tricking children, the companies believe they maximize their chance of having an item selected by a man in blue packaging, and a female in pink packaging. This is exceedingly telling in itself. The fact that companies who have researched these objectives can quantifiably state that the packaging of items in this way is successful. The real issue is that children whom are male favor the male targeting items, and vice versa for females. As opposed to tricking children, the companies are catering to the children's desires.
An item which we have discussed multiple times, Barbie is a good example.
This Barbie package exudes gendered packaging. The pink package with light yellows, and some light blues. Overall, those three colors make up the vast majority of Barbie packages. These colors are intended to grab the attention of young girls who desire to meet the cultural norms for women, either consciously or not.
Packaging of the G.I. Joe varies greatly.
The GI Joe, an item intended for men, varies greatly form Barbie in terms of packaging. The GI Joe has a black background. The caricature pictured has facial hair, weapons, and a gun in order to look tough. This is a typical package targeting males.
Overall, as opposed to Riley who felt the companies were tricking kids, I think of it as a two way street. The companies target the males with these types of packages, which leads the children to identify with "their" gendered packages and in turn leads to them desiring these styles. It is the unfortunate cycle of gender roles that needs to be broken.
Sunday, October 25, 2015
Sexuality, Gender, and the armed forces
My grandfather served in the armed forces during the Korean War. Unfortunately, he died when I was very young, so I was unable to pick his brains on the matter. Realistically, he did not like talking about those years anyway. The only comment he would mention was that war was a terrible,terrible time for all those involved. When he said all those involved, this went past soldiers. He meant everyone, mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, children, and many more.
In fact, sometimes it can be more difficult for those not involved, although obviously those involved face severe challenges. The difference being the fact that the possible outcomes are completely out of their control. On a day that the soldiers are not active, the family members have no idea, and feel just as nervous as a day when their loved one is in action. This lack of control burdens many people every day.
Being a military wife and military husband differs greatly. Firstly, in a way similar to the nuclear family, it is exceedingly difficult for men to play the "house keeping" role. There is an almost emasculating factor, of "letting your wife do the fighting". On the other hand, it is still extremely difficult on women. They must attempt to stay strong in the absence of the male, in the most dyer times. Overall, it is more similar than different. Military husbands and wives still face the unbelievable challenge of living their life, while your loved ones could potentially lose their's.
The military has always been a forefront for social change. The civil rights movement took a strong foothold when Truman desegregated the troops. A similar struggle takes place daily with homosexuals and females. Currently, the "Don't ask, Don't tell" system is in affect. For a multitude of reasons, this is ineffective and a cowardly attempt at equality. There are arguments, some more valid then others, against active duty homosexuals, but truthfully, a soldier is a soldier. Anyone should be able to defend their country.
Active duty females also face challenges. Many are assaulted by their male counterparts and discriminated against for their sexuality. Men often do not wish to fight alongside woman, although most do not abstain to other involvement. Once again, there are many arguments, some valid and some not. Again, if women are capable and willing, they should be allowed to participate in any capacity.
The depiction of military men, and women differs in the media. One specific TV show, "The Last Ship" involves both genders. The women are overall shown as struggling to be "manly". They often fight the showing of emotion and are in a constant battle for respect, while men seem to be inherently respected. One large issue on the show is the fact that one soldier impregnates the female soldier. The ship is somewhat compromised by their situation and this is a real issue. Overall, I am impressed by the depiction of the females. They are tough and often the heroine of the battles. However, it is the men who do the "heavy lifting".
As stated earlier, the armed forces have always been at the forefront of social issues. Generally, a group begins to gain traction in their battle for equality, and then the fight moves on to the armed forces. I expect this battle to be be no different, and homosexuals and women willing and able to battle will gain that right.
In fact, sometimes it can be more difficult for those not involved, although obviously those involved face severe challenges. The difference being the fact that the possible outcomes are completely out of their control. On a day that the soldiers are not active, the family members have no idea, and feel just as nervous as a day when their loved one is in action. This lack of control burdens many people every day.
Being a military wife and military husband differs greatly. Firstly, in a way similar to the nuclear family, it is exceedingly difficult for men to play the "house keeping" role. There is an almost emasculating factor, of "letting your wife do the fighting". On the other hand, it is still extremely difficult on women. They must attempt to stay strong in the absence of the male, in the most dyer times. Overall, it is more similar than different. Military husbands and wives still face the unbelievable challenge of living their life, while your loved ones could potentially lose their's.
The military has always been a forefront for social change. The civil rights movement took a strong foothold when Truman desegregated the troops. A similar struggle takes place daily with homosexuals and females. Currently, the "Don't ask, Don't tell" system is in affect. For a multitude of reasons, this is ineffective and a cowardly attempt at equality. There are arguments, some more valid then others, against active duty homosexuals, but truthfully, a soldier is a soldier. Anyone should be able to defend their country.
Active duty females also face challenges. Many are assaulted by their male counterparts and discriminated against for their sexuality. Men often do not wish to fight alongside woman, although most do not abstain to other involvement. Once again, there are many arguments, some valid and some not. Again, if women are capable and willing, they should be allowed to participate in any capacity.
The depiction of military men, and women differs in the media. One specific TV show, "The Last Ship" involves both genders. The women are overall shown as struggling to be "manly". They often fight the showing of emotion and are in a constant battle for respect, while men seem to be inherently respected. One large issue on the show is the fact that one soldier impregnates the female soldier. The ship is somewhat compromised by their situation and this is a real issue. Overall, I am impressed by the depiction of the females. They are tough and often the heroine of the battles. However, it is the men who do the "heavy lifting".
As stated earlier, the armed forces have always been at the forefront of social issues. Generally, a group begins to gain traction in their battle for equality, and then the fight moves on to the armed forces. I expect this battle to be be no different, and homosexuals and women willing and able to battle will gain that right.
Friday, October 23, 2015
The Birth of Puzzy Riot
Summary
There are two momentous dates for the Russian Band "Pussy Riot'. One being Feb. 21, 2012 when they performed a controversial concert protesting Putin. The other is Dec. 23 when two members whom were jailed for their performances were released. The girls in earlier years pursued different ways to challenge the status quo. One idea was to kill the "militia" or "police" with kindness, through kisses. This was certainly an attempt to combat the mayor's feeling that "Russia does not need gays". Unfortunately russia had no history of cultural feminism, so the girls had to make it up.
When giving the opportunity to speak at a conference for Russian opposition groups, the girls took full advantage. They began by introducing various movements that had taken place in other, more progressive areas. In the 1920's the USSR actually began becoming more progressive in several aspects, but this was shut down in the 1930's.
In a major statement, the girls turned the song "Kill The Sexist" on, an example of "Pisya Riot". However, being a fictional group limited the ladies. So, the girls raised their sights to bigger objectives.
the girls took up instruments, and created costumes with a strong intentional message. The girls would publicly perform on top of metros, and other structures, which lead to the birth of "Pussy Riot".
There are two momentous dates for the Russian Band "Pussy Riot'. One being Feb. 21, 2012 when they performed a controversial concert protesting Putin. The other is Dec. 23 when two members whom were jailed for their performances were released. The girls in earlier years pursued different ways to challenge the status quo. One idea was to kill the "militia" or "police" with kindness, through kisses. This was certainly an attempt to combat the mayor's feeling that "Russia does not need gays". Unfortunately russia had no history of cultural feminism, so the girls had to make it up.
When giving the opportunity to speak at a conference for Russian opposition groups, the girls took full advantage. They began by introducing various movements that had taken place in other, more progressive areas. In the 1920's the USSR actually began becoming more progressive in several aspects, but this was shut down in the 1930's.
In a major statement, the girls turned the song "Kill The Sexist" on, an example of "Pisya Riot". However, being a fictional group limited the ladies. So, the girls raised their sights to bigger objectives.
the girls took up instruments, and created costumes with a strong intentional message. The girls would publicly perform on top of metros, and other structures, which lead to the birth of "Pussy Riot".
Monday, October 5, 2015
Supersexualize Me! Summary
The article begins by discussing how the objectification of women in advertising is connected to violence again women. Furthermore, the current trend is active sex objects as opposed to passive. The cause of this trend are issues that emerged for advertisers in the 1990's, eventually leading to 'commodity feminism'. 'Commodity feminism' is, "an attempt to incorporate the cultural power of energy and feminism while simultaneously domesticating its critique of of advertising and the media". The author dedicates the rest of the chapter to the contemporary shift of sexual representation of women.
The contemporary women is the women who knows her sexual power and deliberately toys with this power, but is always 'up for it'. This is evidenced by the use of the midriff. The midriff has taken on a sexual meaning of recent and is a platform for sexual expression.
"Midriff advertising has four central themes: an emphasis on the body, a shift from objectification to sexual subjectification, a pronounced discourse of choice and autonomy, and an emphasis upon empowerment". Furthermore, women's body's have become their primary attribute and main focus of advertising, being used actively as a form of advertising called sexual subjectification. The 'this is just for me advertising' has taken on extreme popularity. Overall, the ads have an empowering feel to women with slim bodies.
However, this form of entitlement is not positive for post-feminism and is difficult to critique. For example, it excludes a wide array of women from this "empowerment". This gives many women anxiety who don't have this sexual power. Furthermore, these ideas of power through sexuality creates an image as though women have equal or greater power, but in all the wrong ways. Lastly, midriff advertising shifts the way power operates from external to an internal satisfaction. A more sophisticated and different form of exploitation. There is a constant struggle between the ideals of feminism and averting.
The contemporary women is the women who knows her sexual power and deliberately toys with this power, but is always 'up for it'. This is evidenced by the use of the midriff. The midriff has taken on a sexual meaning of recent and is a platform for sexual expression.
"Midriff advertising has four central themes: an emphasis on the body, a shift from objectification to sexual subjectification, a pronounced discourse of choice and autonomy, and an emphasis upon empowerment". Furthermore, women's body's have become their primary attribute and main focus of advertising, being used actively as a form of advertising called sexual subjectification. The 'this is just for me advertising' has taken on extreme popularity. Overall, the ads have an empowering feel to women with slim bodies.
However, this form of entitlement is not positive for post-feminism and is difficult to critique. For example, it excludes a wide array of women from this "empowerment". This gives many women anxiety who don't have this sexual power. Furthermore, these ideas of power through sexuality creates an image as though women have equal or greater power, but in all the wrong ways. Lastly, midriff advertising shifts the way power operates from external to an internal satisfaction. A more sophisticated and different form of exploitation. There is a constant struggle between the ideals of feminism and averting.
Marilyn Monroe
Marilyn Monroe was truly a quite extraordinary women. She excelled in many aspects, but unbeknownst to most people Marilyn was also quite bright. She boasted an IQ over 160, was a successful producer, and a proficient writer. She also held very bright company and could hold her own in their presence. Despite this, she was viewed as a ditz. Marilyn believes this was simply the perception by the pubic, but she didn't do much to oppose this perception. In her profession, she was constantly behind the camera and traditionally played the bubbly role. Overall, it seems likely Marilyn was perceived this way because she played the role the people desired. Men were not interested in her intelligence and saw what they desired. It was also an effort of Marilyn and her entourage to make her appear in the way the audience desired.
Another celebrity who plays a dumbed down role for the purpose of their image is the rapper 2 Chainz. 2 Chainz raps on a very slow rhyme scheme and employs lyrics which are very basic. They are often funny due to their simplicity and ridiculousness. 2 Chainz is a "bitches and hoes" rapper and does not portray himself as being the most clever, but in reality, he is quite intelligent. It was one time rumored that 2 Chainz was a student athlete, 4.0 student, and graduated in 3 years. However, only some of this is true. 2 Chainz was a student athlete, and did attend college, but did not graduate in 3 years or maintain a 4.0 GPA. Furthermore, 2 Chains made a splash when he schooled Nancy Grace in a debate over legalizing marijuana on her TV show. Similar to Marilyn, 2 Chainz dumbs down his lyrics in an effort to produce music people desire. Most fans of the genre 2 Chains is involved in desire simple music with catchy lyrics. They are not looking for overcomplicated intellectual lyrics. In many ways, Marilyn and 2 Chainz are similar.
via https://www.quora.com/Did-2-Chainz-really-graduate-college-with-a-4-0-GPA
Thursday, October 1, 2015
Girl Rising
The movie "Girl Rising" narrates the story of 9 incredible women who faced unbelievable adversity, but are able to overcome their challenges through perseverance. Each girl is incredible in their own way and are a testament to the human spirit. However, there were 2 girls who left a lasting impact on me personally.
The first of these women was Yasmin from Egypt. This story was near and dear to me as I have family from and living in Egypt. Under the rule of Mubarak,who was removed just recently, Egypt has become in an incredibly devastated area. The leadership from the top to the bottom is incredibly corrupt and unjust. Rates of sexual assault are outrageous and many measures of harassment and sexual violence is far greater than 50%. Egyptian women are discriminated against and treated as though they are not even human. Yasmin is an incredible girl who has faced these challenges firsthand, being assaulted by a man. Despite these difficulties, Yasmin has an incredible spirit and strives to gain the education necessary to make the changes she desires for the women of Egypt. Unfortunately, Yasmin's dream may never become a reality. With the incredible corruption and inequality, it is exceedingly difficult to attain the education Yasmin seeks, but if anyone can, it is Yasmin.
The other girl which left an especially lasting impact on me was Ruksana from Calcutta. Ruksana's family lives on the side of a very busy highway, but you would never from the way her and her family act. They are an incredibly cheerful and gracious family. Ruksana is one of the most cheerful and spirited girls I have ever seen. She is an incredibly talented artist who draws her experiences of everyday life. Ruksana's father is also an incredible individual who has dedicated his life to supporting his family by whatever means necessary. Ruksana is a very bright young lady and is currently receiving an education in hopes of bettering their situation. Despite the numerous challenges Ruksana faces, her future is bright.
Despite the numerous challenges both of these young women face, it is Yasmin who has a much more uphill battle. The nature of Egypt is not in her favor. Women are treated so poorly and education is much more difficult to attain. In addition, Ruksana's family is incredibly supportive. Her father is the ideal head of the household who will go to any lengths for his family. He has even stated he has no intentions of marrying his daughters off young. On the other hand, Yasmin's tale is not as bright. She has not made the strides Ruksana has in education, and faces potential challenges with being sold into marriage. Undoubtedly, both are incredible women.
Quite contrastingly to the stories of these two women are the lives of American girls in terms of education. In this country, women are not only expected to be educated, but exceed in education. In general, young women are more successful then males in schooling and now make up the majority of population of higher education. With acts such as Title 9, women's rights to education are a primary focus of society. These movement have been incredibly successful and men are now slacking in the area unfortunately.
The first of these women was Yasmin from Egypt. This story was near and dear to me as I have family from and living in Egypt. Under the rule of Mubarak,who was removed just recently, Egypt has become in an incredibly devastated area. The leadership from the top to the bottom is incredibly corrupt and unjust. Rates of sexual assault are outrageous and many measures of harassment and sexual violence is far greater than 50%. Egyptian women are discriminated against and treated as though they are not even human. Yasmin is an incredible girl who has faced these challenges firsthand, being assaulted by a man. Despite these difficulties, Yasmin has an incredible spirit and strives to gain the education necessary to make the changes she desires for the women of Egypt. Unfortunately, Yasmin's dream may never become a reality. With the incredible corruption and inequality, it is exceedingly difficult to attain the education Yasmin seeks, but if anyone can, it is Yasmin.
The other girl which left an especially lasting impact on me was Ruksana from Calcutta. Ruksana's family lives on the side of a very busy highway, but you would never from the way her and her family act. They are an incredibly cheerful and gracious family. Ruksana is one of the most cheerful and spirited girls I have ever seen. She is an incredibly talented artist who draws her experiences of everyday life. Ruksana's father is also an incredible individual who has dedicated his life to supporting his family by whatever means necessary. Ruksana is a very bright young lady and is currently receiving an education in hopes of bettering their situation. Despite the numerous challenges Ruksana faces, her future is bright.
Despite the numerous challenges both of these young women face, it is Yasmin who has a much more uphill battle. The nature of Egypt is not in her favor. Women are treated so poorly and education is much more difficult to attain. In addition, Ruksana's family is incredibly supportive. Her father is the ideal head of the household who will go to any lengths for his family. He has even stated he has no intentions of marrying his daughters off young. On the other hand, Yasmin's tale is not as bright. She has not made the strides Ruksana has in education, and faces potential challenges with being sold into marriage. Undoubtedly, both are incredible women.
Quite contrastingly to the stories of these two women are the lives of American girls in terms of education. In this country, women are not only expected to be educated, but exceed in education. In general, young women are more successful then males in schooling and now make up the majority of population of higher education. With acts such as Title 9, women's rights to education are a primary focus of society. These movement have been incredibly successful and men are now slacking in the area unfortunately.
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