Feminism

FEMINISM

Feminists seek to challenge the unfair and unequal distribution of power and wealth in patriarchal society. 

A patriarchal society is one based on male rule and domination.
Feminists are particularly interested in the contribution made by the media to society's dominant ideas about gender roles.

GENDER ROLES

The mass media play a crucial role in teaching us how to behave and think in ways that our culture finds acceptable. 

Sex is biological, gender is CULTURAL.

What does it mean to be a woman/man? 
Traditional gender stereotypes-

Femininity:

• Caring                                         Lower status, poorly paid work- childcare, nursing,
• Nurturing                                                                       teaching.
• Emotional
• Domestic
• Sensitive
• Passsive
• Soft
• Gentle

Masculinity:

• Tough                                          Higher status, influential roles, well paid jobs, political 
• Providing                                                                       leadership.
• Rational
• Public/work orientated 
• Thick skinned
• Active
• Rough
• Hard