Quote:
Originally Posted by Spartan  Fairness implies consciously considering the differences of individuals, not imposing stereotypes of masculinity (or femininity). I favour fairness on an individual level.
I think this article advocates sexism in the sense that it imposes stereotypes of masculinity that only serve to increase 'socially conditioned' prejudices, and decrease acceptance of the individual. |
I think I agree with Spartan here.
Although, just because the article is sexist in the sense of imposing stereotypes, doesn't necessarily mean (in my opinion) that it's a bad article - I still like it. I just take from it what I want and apply it to myself how I see fit.
Sorry Steve, but I think your argument re: the definition of sexism was weak, at least when using the example of pregnancy by saying 'men can't have babies' and then saying that's a stereotype. That's not a stereotype, it's a fact. (although this article will tell you otherwise:
Issue Number 1005 | Labor of Love | Advocate.com )
Here's the definition of stereotype I'm working with:
something conforming to a fixed or general pattern; especially : a standardized mental picture that is held in common by members of a group and that represents an oversimplified opinion, prejudiced attitude, or uncritical judgment
Someone else was saying women (as a group) want to feel heightened emotions. Because that statement is
a standardized mental picture that is held in common by members of a group and that represents an oversimplified opinion, prejudiced attitude, or uncritical judgment -it means that statement is a stereotype. (There could certainly be truth behind this statement, but because the statement is being applied to a WHOLE group, that is what makes it a stereotype.) And, because the stereotype is based on sex/gender, that is what makes it sexist.
Now, I fully realize that it is a fact that there are indeed differences between men and women on a physiological scale, and this may include emotions. Since films were used as an example and breaking them up into 'girly' films vs the more manly variety, I would like to say that I usually DESPISE 'girly' films. I usually am not a fan of action-flicks either (although I LOVED certain action films as a kid), unless there's also something of substance to the film. I typically prefer a well-made film who's story line is intriguing and intellectual (and too many films out there usually don't fit the bill). One of my favourite films is 'Contact' based on Carl Sagan's Novel. And my favourite TV shows? Star Trek:TNG and Babylon 5.
Sometimes it might be practical to use stereotypes...Maybe? I don't know, it's not really for me to say. (Or is it?)
But I think the reason behind offensive reactions to stereotypes comes about as a result of the inaccuracies that are created when using a whole group to represent the identity/traits/characteristics of each individual in that group.