Category: Gender Roles

Introduction

Various forms of dance often reflect some elements of culture developed within a particular region or a country. This paper is aimed at examining the way in which gender roles are expressed in tango which can be regarded as a truly multicultural dance. It should be borne in mind that this dance was created by people who represented various cultures. For example, they could come from Europe and Africa; moreover, they could represent the indigenous population of South America. Moreover with time passing, tango became popular in various regions of the world.

Overall, this dance illustrates some of the gender norms adopted in Latin America. To some degree, it lays stress on the idea that males play a leading role while females usually act as followers.

To some degree, this division reflects the cultural phenomenon known as machismo which implies that males should display the signs of strength and sense of control. However, one should not assume that the role of women in tango is inferior because they create the most aesthetic aspects of this dance. These are the main arguments that can be put forward because they are important for understanding the cultural aspects of this dance.

The history of tango

Tango originated in Argentina and Uruguay in the second half of the nineteenth century. Nevertheless, it became popular only at the beginning of the twentieth century. At that time, this dance became popular in Europe and North America as well. The origins of this dance can be traced back to Buenos Aires which drew people coming from Italy, Germany, Poland, and Ireland (Rasche 4). These people represented various social and cultural groups; to some degree, dances such as tango could facilitate their communication. Overall, tango was very popular in the urbanized areas of Argentina, in which people could feel more isolated.

Additionally, tango incorporated the elements of dances which were originally developed in Spain, Cuba, and Africa. This is one of the points that can be made. As a rule, these immigrants went to the salons which were called milongas. Such places played a critical role in the history of this dance. One should keep in mind that tango underwent various modifications when it was adopted in other countries. This paper will focus mostly on the Latin American form of this dance because it was the basis for later variants which emerged later.

The social elements of this dance

When speaking about the social components of this dance, one should mention that tango dancers have to recognize and follow certain rules. For example, in many cases, males and females visiting the milongas have to sit in different parts of the hall (Luongo 110). Additionally, if couples want to dance tango with people who are not familiar to them, they are expected to enter milongas separately (Luongo 110). Apart from that, it is important to avoid eye contact with people of the opposite sex, especially if visitors do not want to invite each other for a dance (Luongo 110).

Overall, these rules lay stress on the reverence for a woman. In turn, a man, who violates these norms, can be excluded from a milonga. Moreover, he can be neglected by female dancers. Apart from that, the dancers should follow a certain dress code. Certainly, this code is not always enforced, but one should adhere to a more formal style of clothing in order to be accepted by other people. Thus, social elements play a very important role in the culture of tango since they significantly influence the behavior of many people.

Movements of this dance

The movements of tango can vary dramatically; in this case, much depends on the degree of familiarity between partners. They can choose between open and close embraces. Close embrace means that partners dance chest to chest. This approach can be compared to the display of intimacy (Manning 88). In turn, open embrace means that the dancers hold each other’s hands, but there is some distance between them (Manning 88). This is one of the differences that should be taken into account. Yet, sometimes, dancers can alternate close and open embraces (Manning 88).

Traditionally, the dance starts with a female’s nod which means that she accepts the offer. In turn, the choice of movements depends on the degree of familiarity between the partners (Manning 88). If they know each other very well, a male partner can perform a boleo which is also called a whip.

It is achieved by changing the direction; as a result, the follower’s leg is thrown up. There are many other movements that can be performance by dancers; for example, one can mention sweeps or dissociations. On the whole, it is possible to argue that tango is a very complex dance that requires a very high degree of coordination and physical fitness. Moreover, the partners should practice for a long time. These are the main technical characteristics that can be singled out.

Gender distinctions included in tango

One should also keep in mind that the roles of dancers are usually gendered. As a rule, a male plays the role of a leader. In other words, he should initiate and control various movements (Goff and Dunn 196). In turn, a woman should respond to his directions (Goff and Dunn 196). In this context, the terms leadership and following cannot be compared to inferiority and superiority. More likely, they are used to shapes the progress of a dance. To some degree, this division reflects the gender norms adopted in Argentina as well as other parts of Latin America.

Nevertheless, one should bear in mind that tango is possible if two partners completely trust one another. Moreover, the follower should fully understand and anticipate the steps taken by the leader. As a rule, the movements of the leader are very minimalistic, while followers perform sweeps, turns, and other move that can be very complex,

To a great extent, the gendered structure of tango is influenced by the culture of machismo (Klein 140). This word is used to describe a system of norms according to which males should produce the impression of strength and control (Klein 140).

This vision of males was adopted by many people who came to Argentina and other Latin American countries, even though they could represent different cultures (Klein 140). This is one of the aspects that should be taken into account. Nevertheless, one should bear in mind the roles of genders are often contested and negotiated in Latin American countries, including Argentina. In this case, one should speak about culture which emerged at the beginning of the nineteenth century.

Moreover, it is possible to say that the movements performed by female dancers create the very beauty of tango. Without them, the aesthetic value of tango can diminish significantly. Therefore, their role cannot be underestimated. This is one of the details that should be taken into account while discussing the gender aspects of tango.

Admittedly, the gender roles in dance may be different; this argument is particularly relevant if one speaks about the later forms of this dance which emerged in Europe and the United States. This style is often called gender-neutral tango. Nevertheless, Argentinean style still remains the most widespread form of this dance. Moreover, it has profoundly shaped the international forms of tango. This is why this particular variant has been discussed in this paper. Additionally, the key task was to focus on the Latin American cultural environment.

Conclusion

On the whole, this discussion indicates that dances can indeed reflect some of the cultural norms established in the community. To some degree, tango throws light on the relations between men and women in many Latin American societies. In this case, one should mention that males are supposed to play the role of leaders, while women are usually expected to follow their directions.

Nevertheless, one should not discuss the roles of genders in terms of superiority or inferiority. Although women act as followers, they play a vital role in creating the aesthetic value of tango. This is one of the pitfalls that should be avoided. Certainly, such behavioral patterns can always be observed in the modern Latin America. Moreover, tango primarily reflects the gender norms established in Argentina and Uruguay more than a century ago. These are the main details that should be considered.

Works Cited

Goff, Patricia and Kenvin Dunn. Identity and Global Politics: Theoretical and Empirical Elaborations, New York: Palgrave Macmillan, 2004. Print.

Klein, Gabriele. Tango in Translation, New York: Verlag, 2009. Print.

Luongo, Michael. Frommer’s Buenos Aires, New York: John Wiley & Sons, 2011. Print.

Manning, Erin. Politics of Touch: Sense, Movement, Sovereignty. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press, 2007. Print.

Rasche, Thomas. Argentine Tango – Class Companion: the Guide for Students of Argentine Tango. New York: Lulu, 2007. Print.

In the course of the twentieth century and at the threshold of the twenty-first century, the images and roles of gender have constantly been changing. The concepts of masculinity and femininity have undergone significant shifts due to the media influence and advertising.

More importantly, commercials have had a potent impact on constructing gender identity, which deviates significantly from normal, adequate outlooks on male and female roles across cultures and nations. In the United States and abroad, there is a significant deviation in constructing masculinity and femininity, which becomes an integral part of shaping habits, behavior, and stereotypes.

While discussing the images of masculinity portrayed in modern commercials, specific emphasis should be placed on the role of violence and physical appearance in creating this concept. The video called Tough Guise: Violence, Media & the Crisis in Masculinity describes the current trends and patterns in perceiving female and male images.

To enlarge on this issue, the narrator explains that toughness and physical strength are main qualities that all men use to characterize the new paradigm of masculinity. Hence, masculinity becomes strongly associated with violence. Such a perception is created by media, and these attributes influence the trends accepted in dominated culture.

In contrast to violence and strength as common feature of male image in popular culture, women are losing their position because of their diminished role in social and political life.

Women, therefore, are depicted as victims and their importance is mostly associated with gender issues whereas men are often disregarded within this concept of gender. Media fails to mark violence and crimes as being performed by males. However, newspapers and television programs pay attention to gender as soon as women are involved in crimes.

The role of media in promoting the status quo is destructive because the images introduced in society distort the right and morally justified outlook on gender roles. Portrayal of women has been seriously deviated by concepts introduced in commercials since the beginning of the twentieth century.

In the video called Killing Us Softly, the author of the book criticizes the media images of women, in which physical appearance and beauty are prioritized whereas other qualities, such as intelligence and professional skills, are often ignored. Hence, in case women fail to conform to these stereotypes, there is a higher probability that they will fail to socialize successfully.

The current perceptions of gender roles have undergone dramatic shifts in terms of the appearance, social status, and relationships. In particular, there is a tendency in associating violence with masculinity, although mass media fail to underscore the role of males in shaping the constructs of violence, physical toughness, and strength because the opposite notions are not accepted while addressing male images.

Women have become more associated with beauty, girlish depiction, and weakness, whose defense mechanisms and intelligence are underestimated. In fact, the video representing the book Killing Us Softly provides evidence that the success of business organization in which women take managerial positions is more evident as compared to organizing with men holding leading positions.

In conclusion, mass media promotion of false gender stereotypes negatively influences the modern visions of which functions men and women should perform in society.

Focusing on physical appearances and neglecting other qualities contributes to gender inequality and destroys the right values, images, and roles assigned to masculinity and femininity. The assumption that all men should be violent and tough and women should always be victims is wrong because it prevents from establishing favorable social relationships.

Works Cited

Bentley University. “Killing Us Softly”. YouTube. 2012.

Cowmanll. “Tough Guise: Violence, Media & the Crisis in Masculinity”. YouTube. 2013.

What do we mean when we say that gender is a ‘binary construction’?

When saying that gender is a binary construction, one implies that there are two genders, namely, the masculine and the feminine one, and two corresponding types of social behaviour, which are predetermined by the existing standards of masculinity and femininity.

Indeed, if considering the two genders, one must admit that they are in fact the exact opposite of each other. While the masculine presupposes that one possesses such qualities as physical strength and the skills of leadership, the feminine implies a softer and a more balanced self and a personality which is less apt to conflicting.

What are ‘hegemonic masculinity’ and ‘emphasized femininity’ and how are they mutually constitutive?

The term “hegemonic masculinity” implies that in a certain society, the masculine behavior among men and the masculine code of conduct is appropriate and approved of. It must be mentioned that the given type of behavior is directly opposed to the feminine type.

Contrasting the previous phenomenon, emphasized femininity is the type of behavior that presupposes a more feminine-like manner of behaving. In the societies where the homophobic attitudes are driven to nil and women’s manner is considered the standard, men follow typically women-like kind of behavior. However, it must be noted that the given phenomenon should be treated rather as the norm of femininity which is most appreciated by the given culture in the current time slot.

Despite the fact that the two elements are the exact opposites of each other, they still make a single entity known as the gender. Like to parts of a puzzle, the two genders are quite compatible and introduce harmony into the humankind. Thus, the two are completely constitutive.

How is gender something that we ‘perform’?

Performing gender means accepting a certain code of conduct and behaving in the way appropriate for a feminine or masculine gender. Performing gender means wearing certain clothes (for instance, wearing a skirt or a dress means to be recognized as a feminine gender), or acting in a certain way. In addition to the looks and behavior, certain aspects of a person’s life, such as hobbies, a job, etc. can be used as the performance of the role of a certain gender.

Using concrete examples, discuss the ways that gender differences are reinforced through the media.

It is evident that the current mass media is filled with all sorts of gender prejudices and gender stereotypes, which leads to creating even greater gaps between the feminine and the masculine. For example, if speaking about the reinforcement of feminine features, it will be appropriate to consider some of the modern advertisements. If considering some of the sportswear commercials, one must note that mostly men take part in those. However, when it comes to cooking and laundry, women usually play the leading part in the advertisements.

In addition, if considering not only the images themselves, but also the environment around them, one can note easily that women are usually portrayed either in the realm of fashion and glamour, or in the sphere of household. Thus, the stereotypical portrayal of a woman is being built. In contrast to the latter, men are often portrayed either in the sphere of business, or technology, which makes the stereotype of a breadwinner and a scholar as typically masculine field seven more.

My views changed in many ways from this class. Before this class, I had not considered many aspects of the gay community in many regards. Transsexual’s roles as men or women, lesbian interactions with transsexuals, gay black men with regards to the community, and issues concerning intersexed people were the topics I was most ignorant of. My views on them changed mostly because I became more informed. I was not very biased in any sense to begin with, so the views that changed in this class were not really related to opinion. Essentially, the topic of transsexuals changed my perspective of how they fit in to the community as men or women.

I always wondered if they were really considered women or not, and while before I had the opinion that their genitals made up their true role, I now view how they try to act as their role. While it seems obvious that how they act with regards to their role as far as style, expression, etc, I tended to see them in terms of what was actually under their clothes. Now, I see them as however they want to act without discriminating (politely) with regards to how they choose to use their sexual organs as this is part of their sexuality.

I was never aware that lesbians or male homosexuals did not let these people into the “community” because they are not actually born into sexuality or are by any definition a pure lesbian or homosexual. Furthermore, I became aware of the problems gay black males commonly have with being cut off from the rest of the African community. The concept of intersexed people having their identity surgically altered before they are aware of it was also new to me and changed my perspective.

I wish I could have contributed more to the class, but I contributed a fair amount to the discussions when I thought I could do so in an intelligent manner. This is probably how I contributed best, as I sincerely enjoyed the lectures while giving them deep consideration, I assisted in providing for a stimulating and thought provoking atmosphere. The ways in which I offered unique and specific questions allowed the class to consider the topics in a new light, and thus gaining a deeper understanding. I would go as far to claim that I added entirely new perspectives to the class’s learning, but I proposed slightly different situations and questions that changed the considerations enough to where it was somewhat different and new.

Lehr’s Queer Family Values provided for diverse accounts, objective viewpoints, and new twist on common traditional thinking. They changed how I think about traditional values and everyday notions. The basic heterosexual viewpoints, as challenged by the author, are also now perceived in a new light by me and likely the whole class. I never really thought of marriage as something oppressive or so directly related to gender, economic, or ethnic background but I do now.

I was able to consider gay and lesbian oppression in a new way, as the author discussed this in depth while further relating this to social threats and the family. I also learned that the nuclear family is practically custom-fit for society while it ultimately revolves around heterosexuality. I have never really considered how heterosexuality plays such a strong role in society outside of sexuality itself. The article led to me care more for the societal equality for those not a part of a heterosexual nuclear family. I do not think society should favor people based on heterosexuality, though I also do not think that it actually intends to.

The popularity of the heterosexual family is what had led the rest of society to be built around it. The people in these families have been spending much time making lives for themselves easier without giving serious regards to the non-heterosexual minority. However as common as homosexuality is and as acceptable as it is becoming, perhaps this will happen in due time.

Seidman and Richardson’s Handbook of Lesbian and Gay Studies has also been seriously enlightening. I honestly feel however that all of the readings were enlightening, and this one was with regards to the viewpoints extracted from so many essays. The abundance of information revealed some core relevant issue to the gay community in addition to the ever-changing theory. I learned of the origins of gay and lesbian studies, as well that of the confining of such studies in earlier times to specific institutions. I also learned of the scientific basis for sexuality on levels that beforehand I was only vaguely familiar with.

While the distinction between heterosexuals and homosexuals was apparent to me before, I was able to better comprehend some specific cases and studies with regards to scientific aspects as discussed in the reading. I was previously unfamiliar with the topic of ‘cyber-queer’ research, and now I am. The most interesting concepts for me were the topics of sexuality with regards to education and religion. Religion is a controversial topic, obviously, to begin with.

It in combination with homosexuality is interesting to consider because it seems to serve as the source for many resulting opinions. Most of society’s stigmatization towards homosexuality can probably be related to religion, since so many people base all of their actions off of religion while homosexuality is commonly not tolerated in many popular religions such as Christianity.

The Transgender Studies was uniquely interesting in that it put a whole new spin on sexuality not commonly discussed. The book’s discussion of the evolution of transgender analysis provided me with a lot of insight on a new area, and thus was one topic where the most actual learning took place. While the concepts were not as particularly relevant to me as I know only homosexuals and no transgenders, I feel I have a newfound level of awareness similar to corporate-style diversity training.

I may actually be required to take some sort of diversity or sensitivity training for my career, and if so, I will be able to contribute much to group discussions because of all of the material learned here. At any rate, the transgender studies also made me familiar with the topic of “scientific sexology,” something which I was previously unfamiliar with.

Queer Theory was unique in its presentation but ultimately was less informative than I feel it could have been. The premise of it revealing the origins of homosexual desire seemed promising for lots of new learning. While it did provide me with an interesting perspective on these origins as well as some research in the area, overall I do not feel that it gave me a complete understanding as to why homosexual are the way they are.

Perhaps this will never be as understood as common scientific fact, however I felt as if the book would have explained more than it did. Overall I was not disappointed, for I did feel as is the studies presented enlightened me to a point where I can now look at homosexuals with more empathy and overall understanding. This kind of empathy and meaning is what is important to me in this reading as much as it is in any other.

Overall, I cannot say my opinions towards politics or any kind of topic have changed from these readings because I was already rather liberal to begin with. The way I have changed is how I perceive people. I am always trying to understand people and have empathy so I can establish and maintain positive relationships. Understanding these concepts on deep levels helps me to do just that, and between a lack of motivation and a lack of time I did not do the research on my own.

My feelings have not changed much either, I had the mentality that I mentioned before this class began. I actually had to stop myself from being so interested in diverse sexuality that I favored it. While I do not have biases, I do not want to praise people just for not having traditional sexuality and I feel this level of emphasis has the tendency to do that. The point is people should be treated equally, of course, with regards to sexuality, while praise is just as much difference as bias from a theoretical viewpoint.

I still do not feel there is any active systemic oppression. I simply think the world was designed mostly by heterosexuals who made live convenient in their way and those like them. While this never gave enough consideration to some in according to certain opinions, I am not convinced there is a real systemic oppression. I think there is about as much or more racism than there is systemic oppression, and I do not believe there are intentionally active forces beyond ignorance and racism in personal opinion to suppress race.

Homophobia is something people need to get over. This was evident in about every reading. All people need to reflect on this, and the most damning cause of such beliefs is likely religion. If people honestly belief that homosexuality is not only a sin but one of the worst sins, it will take a ridiculous or even impossible amount of equal rights actions to counter the stigmas and beliefs. Flexibility is most relevant here, and the course as a whole serves the purpose to inform us of sexual differences so that there is no homophobia. Discrimination and prejudice are obviously very negative while these commonly integrated into society is plain destructive. Perhaps Queer Theory and Queer Family Values explained this best, as they related topics in heterosexual terms for easy understanding.

I always had an eye for stereotyping and avoiding it. I pride myself on being a liberal. The best I can do is to become aware and open minded, while taking care to show equality. The Queer Theory and Queer Family Values mentioning of such stereotypes as the ‘flaming gay’ male and ‘butch’ female are the most common stereotypes. While it did take me some time, I learned awhile ago that not all guys who act in the ‘flaming’ or ‘limp wristed’ manner are actually gay, or that ones that are gay will act as such. Just the same, I recognize the stereotype of ‘butch’ lesbians, realizing not all butches are gay and not all ‘dominant’ lesbians are butch types. As such, I feel my ability to recognize stereotypes is roughly the same.

This class has helped me become more aware overall. I already prided myself on being knowledgeable to some extent, open minded, and with as little bias as possible. While I did not need serious barriers to be removed or phobias solved, I still learned a great deal that can be applied to my life in the future.

The concept of the domestic-public dichotomy concerns that women are oriented toward domestic work while everything extra domestic is considered the area of men’s responsibility. This concept is used to show that women who do not get any money for their domestic work are totally dependent on men, who are the only breadwinners in the family (Lamphere 98). However, it is wrong to consider women exposed to the domestic work powerless, as they have the opportunity to informally or implicitly influence men and the decisions they make (Lamphere100). Thus, women are able to lessen the men’s power through the conversations and the use of different persuasive techniques. In that case, women may be considered masked decision-makers as they can channel and shape the decisions made by men. The domestic-public dichotomy may be considered even useful because it made the scientists think about the gender roles historically typical of men and women.

Women have all the risks to face downward mobility mainly because it is harder for them than for men to get higher social positions and statuses. However, with the development of feminism, it became easier for women to gain power and influence than several decades ago (Hirsch 140). At the same time, when it comes to better job conditions and more respectable positions in society, the priority is given to men rather than to women.

When speaking about the influence of space in husband-wife relationships, it is necessary to mention that the image of the marriage has changed over time. Now it is perceived not as the obligation built on the mutual respect and fulfilment of gender responsibilities as it was in the middle of the 20th century (Hirsch 144). Men and women now tend to become companions in marriage, and their gender roles are not as strictly observed as they were previously. Thus, men may do domestic work while women become breadwinners for the family.

Works Cited

Hirsch, Jennifer. “Marriage, Modernity, and Migration: Changing Dynamics of Intimacy in a Mexican Transnational Culture” Gender in Cross-cultural Perspective, 2017, pp. 139-152.

Lamphere, Louise. “The Domestic Sphere of Women and the Public World of Men” Gender in Cross-cultural Perspective, 2017, pp. 97-108.

Modern society is steadily moving away from strong gender stereotypes that used to dictate people’s lifestyles and were digested by individuals since early childhood. Today, both parents and teachers see the positive impact of the attempts to integrate anti-biased gender-related education on young children as they get more freedom to express themselves and grow up less aggressive (Derman-Sparks & Edwards, 2019). However, as their behavior depends on the examples they see at home, some youngsters still follow the stereotypes parents force them to identify to keep them safe from bullying (Kollmayer et al., 2019). Indeed, Schroeder and Liben (2021) claim that “pressure experiences with parents and peers are differentially related to children’s peer interactions, suggesting a possible mechanism by which levels of sexism may be shaped in peer groups” (p. 125). Generation by generation, the influence of primary characteristics such as race or gender fades, giving people more diversity in their life choices, and, in my preschool years, the stereotypes were a lot stronger than now.

Although gender stereotypes still exist because following the established roles is safer than getting free from biases, young generations have more chances to grow up loyal to gender expressions. In the video, children recognize the gender-related distinctions between boys and girls, such as playing cards or dolls, wearing dresses or not, and their parents admit that they buy toys and clothes based on the sex assigned at birth. Pupils in a video claim that if their peer expresses themselves opposite to their sex, others will laugh, and, for example, a boy in a dress will be sad about it. Their responses should enable teachers to develop a stronger anti-biased education program through which children could learn about the freedom of identification (Derman-Sparks & Edwards, 2019). The success of novel approaches towards helping youngsters learn about gender expression depends on how their parents perceive these modern concepts and if their family culture and tradition approve of it.

References

Derman-Sparks, L., & Edwards, J. O. (2019). Understanding anti-bias education.YC Young Children, 74(5), 6-13.

Kollmayer, M., Schultes, M. T., Schober, B., Hodosi, T., & Spiel, C. (2018). Parents’ judgments about the desirability of toys for their children: Associations with gender-role attitudes, gender-typing of toys, and demographics.Sex Roles, 79(5), 329-341.

Schroeder, K. M., & Liben, L. S. (2021). Felt pressured to conform to cultural gender roles: Correlates and consequences.Sex Roles, 84(3), 125-138.

Gender roles and stereotypes influence the formation of society and each individual, especially in youth. High school turns out to be the space where stereotypes about normal appearance and behavior are a requirement for students. Young people are identified in society through the identification marks of subcultures and gender roles. It is at this time that young people are trying to understand themselves, their aspirations, their sexual representation, and their preferences. The documentary film “Straightlaced” tells about those people who are not able to fit into the required framework of appearance and behavior (New Day Films, 2017). The film tells numerous stories of people with gender dysphoria, that is, those who are dissatisfied with their gender and therefore create a unique gender model that matches their personality. They are faced with misunderstandings from their peers, inconvenience before the administration, and finally, even disappointment, annoyance, and anger from their parents. All this happens because modern culture was formed as patriarchal and, accordingly, requires the separation of gender roles. At the moment, modern culture, as expressed in social media and advertising, is vague about gender roles. On the one hand, the culture of tolerance and acceptance implies that each person is free to look the way he wants to embody himself, and what he wants to express with his appearance. On the other hand, social media and marketing agencies are interested in acquiring capital and therefore see no shame in playing along with traditional gender stereotypes. Concepts of masculinity or femininity can make people want to take communion because it will make them feel comforted by being part of society. Thus, some people are more comfortable fitting into the established gender model, while others tend to abandon this in search of their real selves. The problem of women’s inequality throughout the history of the development of society has been quite disturbing and demonstrates the entrenched order of patriarchal ideology. Gender division occurs according to the roles prescribed by society for women about men. In the two genders, completely different qualities are valued to combine them into an effective social unit. However, the union of a man and a woman according to gender roles only levels the role of a woman and deprives her of independence. A woman is perceived as the keeper of the hearth, who must keep the man’s house in order and take care of the man while he does real things, changing the world around him. The world’s order of the female gender role is connected with the need to be an addition to a man, his support, but not an independent human unit. Gender segregation usually works the same way in workers’ organizations. Joan Acker (1990, p. 139) points out that there is an offensive inconsistency between the asexual model of the universal worker and the reality in which women fill a subordinate role. One might conclude that gender neutrality and abstraction in offices are only a cover to maintain the basis of gender injustice. Those few women in high positions at work behave like men in social aspects. This indicates a systemic unsettledness in the institution of interaction between men and women, where the female role is automatically associated with a lower role relative to the male. Bureaucracy and office space thus look like muscle-centric formations whose default tasks include control and oppression of the opposite sex.

Works Cited

Acker, Joan. “Hierarchies, Jobs, Bodies: A Theory of Gendered Organizations”, Gender & Society, 1990, vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 139-158.

“Straightlaced — How Gender’s Got Us All Tied Up (New Trailer).” YouTube, uploaded by New Day Films, 2017.

Introduction

The study explores gender identity through the film Gender Revolution: A Journey with Katie Couric. The film centers on the complex story of transgender transition and the attendant hardships people face. Katie Couric discusses how transgender teens need the most attention, especially regarding financial, ethical, and social opportunities. In addition, the film examines several legal aspects that require increased caution and the need to find the best legislative strategies. Finally, Couric notes that the diversity of gender identities forces society to become increasingly exciting, multifaceted, and complex.

Individualism in Gender Identity

Ethical theories can be used to explain breakthroughs in understanding gender identity. Despite the success of general hedonistic and altruistic approaches, individualism should be used as part of the solution to gender issues. Identity results from each person’s reflection that their identity is predominant for them and essential in their universe. It can change and be flexible, but it is the only thing that shapes consciousness and the general perception of the world. Individualism can be seen in the decision to gender transition: Katie Couric tells of Hari Nef, who made a coming out to fit her identity (Couric). She saw that her transgender identity reflected her inner world, a part of her identity that could not be abandoned. By making an ethical choice in her favor, Hari agreed to open up to society because doing otherwise would have been against her identity.

The Film’s Connection to the Gender Revolution

The Gender Revolution primarily began with the advancement of women’s rights, which other communities gradually joined. The expansion of women’s rights allowed the oppression of homosexual and bisexual people to go away, as they were also no longer considered deviants (Dembroff and Saint-Croix 585). For transgender people, who have put no small amount of pressure on the American legislature, the gender revolution was an opportunity to assert their identity. Overall, the gender revolution gained solid political support, thanks to organizations that sought to make any work more socially inclusive and supportive. However, one cannot leave aside the personal merits of public figures (women, LGBT people) who pushed society to change its perception of reality. A significant breakthrough has been established in what gender roles are and what they are for. In the film, Katie Couric testifies that society has become less closed-minded and has expanded its understanding of how people are structured and identify themselves. Identification and the search for identity within oneself have been central to a gender agenda that continues in multiple spheres. Katie Couric demos that the modern construction of society allows adolescents to avoid unnecessary problems through the education and work of LGBT children’s advocates. Mikaela Mendelsohn points out that issues still exist, but the community is committed to solving them (Couric). Consequently, Katie Couric’s film makes it clear that changing gender roles and their representation in society result from the aspirations of many people who first understood the need for new gender sociology.

Marcy Lee Bowers’ Ethical Choices

Marcy Lee Bowers is a surgeon who specializes in gender affirmation surgeries among transgender people. Her work involves many complex surgical aspects: for example, restoring the integrity of female genitalia after mutilation and many plastic surgeries (Couric). Bowers’ tasks include understanding patient needs and finding the best solution for each case. The breadth of her practice in transgender issues suggests that every choice Bowers makes is ethical, requiring her to be respectful and highly responsible. She is concerned that she cannot always help transgender people make the right choices; accordingly, it is a matter of ethical considerations. Bowers believes that the problems of rapid onset gender dysphoria are an aspect of her work. Every surgery involving gender affirmation is a challenging element of her surgical practice, as it requires her to be attentive to every precedent (Shrier). Since medical practice is always closely associated with ethical principles (caring, consideration, care), Bowers’ dilemmas about the transgender surgical decision are part of her ethical choices (Shrier). It is also worth noting that the gravity of this choice is justified by a high degree of social responsibility and her biases (Couric). Although Bowers is a specialist in gender surgery, she also accepts that her position on this issue is as fluid as her identity. As a consequence, the actions she performs require special attention. Consequently, because of the specific nature of Marcy Lee Bowers’ surgical practice, every decision she makes is ethical, requiring choosing the best alternative and individual respectful approach.

Conclusion

Philosophical knowledge can be used to explain gender identity, and often it is represented by people with degrees in gender studies, psychology, and physiology. The metaphysical understanding of gender and sexuality is worth considering in questions of gender identity (Dembroff and Saint-Croix 572). For example, the film features Tamar Szabó Gendler, dean of Yale University. She believes that gender studies are necessary for the overall functioning of society (Couric). She studies gender law because she understands that she is responsible for her students. Gendler believes that philosophical psychology, which is close to her, can be the key to understanding gender, so she sees this as her goal.

Works Cited

Couric, Katie, director. Gender Revolution: A Journey with Katie Couric. National Geographic and World of Wonder, 2017.

Dembroff, Robin, and Catharine Saint-Croix. “‘Yep, I’m Gay’: Understanding Agential Identity”. Ergo, vol. 6, no. 6, 2019, pp. 571-599. doi: 10.3998/ergo.12405314.0006.020.

Shrier, Abigail. “Top Trans Doctors Blow the Whistle on ‘Sloppy’ Care”.Common Sense, 2021.

Introduction

The two sites, namely, Cosmopolitan (www.cosmopolitan.com) and Maxim (www.maxim.com), present some ideas about the gender-specific activities of men and women. Both of them bear certain similarities regarding their views on sexuality and their concept of the probable ways of men and women react to and have expectations from each other. These concepts can be discussed under certain categories as follows.

Message in the Sites

Both the sites concerned have conveyed certain messages about the way a man or a woman should look, act or think. Though there is a basic difference in the way a man and woman should behave with each other or even individually, the main aim of both of them is to attract and continue getting each other’s attention.

How are women supposed to look, act or think?

The woman portrayed in these sites is supposed to look ‘hot’ and sexy in order to be attractive to a man. Women are supposed to dress up in a way that boosts up their sex appeals. Women have also been advised to keep watch on their men apart from being desirable themselves as they might be playing with them. Women also need to pamper their relationship with men and not irritate them by repeatedly mentioning their ex-loves and harping on the wires that men do not like. A woman in these sites actually has been portrayed as a quite pampered gender, but unfortunately, she has a lot of chances to be wronged as well (Cosmopolitan 1).

How are men supposed to look, act or think?

A man by looks is similarly supposed to look attractive to the. There is an indication in the sites that there is an expectation from men that they would be caring to their ladies along with presenting themselves as macho and desirable by women. They are supposed to keep on expressing their feelings towards women. In case a man is cheating, and that gets exposed, there are ways of making up with the lady. Though men have been assigned the duty of pampering the other gender, more women also have been warned against touching certain weak points in their men, which might prove detrimental as men are really sensitive towards these points (Cosmopolitan 1).

Messages about romantic and sexual relationships

The sites concerned present some messages about successful romantic and sexual relationships as well.

While establishing a romantic relationship or going on the first date, men have been asked to put emphasis on all the gestures a woman likes and can rely upon. Women like being picked up, getting flowers, a few caring gestures reflecting Chivalry. Women accept holding hands but no harsh behavior. Further sexual gestures she might not like (Maxim 1).

Men in the bedroom like to stay in the present and strongly dislike the mention of ex-loves of their women. They don’t like to hear the insults of anyone they love apart from his woman. Men also like their women to let them fantasize a bit while having sex (Cosmopolitan 1).

The difference in the messages for men and women

Men and women are both given the messages of satisfying each other, but the main difference in the message is that men should be caring more for their women. Women somehow have been indicated to be a little possessive and a little suspicious about their men.

Similar phrases used to describe gender and sexuality

Words and phrases like ‘hot,’ ‘ex,’ ‘first date,’ ‘sex,’ ‘crazy,’ etc., have been used to describe gender and sexuality (Maxim 1).

The seen patterns

The pattern visible in these sites is mainly about caring, cheating, or apologizing men against the hot, suspicious and possessive women. But in reality, there might be other patterns as well, like jealous, dominating, harsh, and suspicious men against wronged, gullible and straightforward women (Cosmopolitan1).

Conclusion

The sites definitely can give a man or woman ideas regarding what the opposite sex really wants. It is essential to be desirable to each other but taking care of each others’ feelings is also necessary. We always find out some or other way to complain about the opposite sex. But sexuality and gender are not about complaining and fault findings. The Cosmopolitan (www.cosmopolitan.com) and Maxim (www.maxim.com) give access to the address of each other’s minds. Body and mind go hand in hand. If combined together, a relationship devoid of any complaints can be established.

Works Cited

Cosmopolitan. “Cosmopolitan.” Hearst Communications. 2010. Web.

Maxim. “Maxim.com.” Alpha Media Group Inc. 2010. Web.

Gender identity, personal self-determination of the unique image of the “I,” the problems of equality, social harmony, and justice between men and women are among the pressing problems of the modern world. There is still no clear answer to how a person can find his or her destiny and place in the world, and understand the opportunities and prospects, considering the opinion of the dominant number of people. Many individuals’ problems are caused by imposed stereotypes, labels, and mistaken ideas about roles and responsibilities. According to Slaughter and Dorment, humanity must find ways to smooth out social conflicts and balance the ratio of forces and capabilities. Slaughter, in her article, maintains that women and men can “have everything” and “have it all at the same time” (Graff 538); everyone should get what they deserve.

Dorment urges people to fight for what they want (Graff 573); there is always that choice, and only a person decides what to do. Furthermore, he states, “Man, woman, whoever: Get a shovel and start digging” (Graff 572). It is worth noting that everyone is equal, and gender does not matter if one can perform the work qualitatively. To minimize and eliminate such social issues, it is necessary to resort to research methods and do a more advanced analysis based on the data obtained. If humanity is ready to fight against injustice within strict gender roles, it is essential to focus on the causes and consequences of prejudice, understand the data received, and draw certain conclusions.

To date, gender stereotypes regarding the responsibilities of men and women are defined in almost everything – from household chores and hobbies to work. Nowadays, a person is under pressure from society regarding the performance of duties and specific tasks. For example, a man is expected to work, earn more money, and take responsibility, while on the contrary, a woman is obliged to conduct household chores. In the article “Why Men Still Can’t Have It All,” Dorment argues that “the concept of work-life balance is strongly gendered” (Graff 569). Consequently, society continues to classify work and activity into strictly “male” and “female.”

Many people think about what to do in this situation: follow the imposed stereotypes, do what they like and need, or combine everything. In this case, a person has several ways to correctly distribute their powers and abilities – balancing fulfilling those duties that society requires or combining them all. Slaughter states that one “would do well to frame work-family balance in terms of the broader social and economic issues that affect both women and men (Graff 551).” Undoubtedly, everyone decides what to do, but one thing is essential in this case: finding himself or herself, understanding the needs, and following the establishment of spiritual harmony and balance. People exhaust themselves, try to go ahead, and get unsatisfactory results, so it is crucial to learn to listen to oneself and heart, to reflect on values and beliefs.

At times, people had to face a situation when the performance of actions and decision-making occurred under social stereotypes. Indeed, everyone has heard and knows such phrases as “a man must earn money,” and a woman “should wash, clean and cook.” Times change, but the “remnants of the past” persists, and just a person decides what to do in particular moments — to accept or start acting.

In the article, Anne-Marie Slaughter maintains, “Another woman told me she had decided to take some time out or pursue a less competitive career track so that she could spend more time with her family (Graff 536)”. In this case, the author integrated the quotation in her text as a separate fragment of the statement. Slaughter used indirect speech to convey the central meaning of the content of the words without preserving the form of expression of thoughts.

She puts a comma after the phrase, thereby completing the statement, and then indicates the characteristics of the “speaker.” At the same time, this phrase is a vivid example or a sample of the reader’s introduction to the discourse of concepts proposed by Anne-Marie. According to Chapter 3 of the book “They Say, I Say,” I would suggest some changes. For example, the main problem with citations is that they speak for themselves. The following phrase would sound much better “As another woman puts me, “I want to take a break to spend more time with my family.” It makes make the quote clearer for the reader.

In the article “Why Women Still Can’t Have It All” by Anne-Marie Slaughter, there are several places where the author agrees with others or, on the contrary, disagrees. For instance, Slaughter herself writes, “I am hardly alone in this realization (Graff 539).” Thus, she agrees with those women who left their careers for the sake of their families. The writer also agrees when she writes, “Sandberg thinks that “something” is an “ambition gap” — that women do not dream big enough.

I am all for encouraging young women to reach for the stars (Graff 541).” Additionally, another idea that she does not agree with is outlined in the article. Anne-Marie disagrees when she writes, “You have to stop talking about your kids,” one said…I told them that I was doing it deliberately and continued my practice (Graff 545).” The writer was discouraged by the speech of one of the worried female associate professors.

Works Cited

Graff, Gerald, et al. “They Say / I Say” with Readings. 5th ed., W. W. Norton & Company, 2021.

Slaughter, Anne-Marie. “Why Women Still Can’t Have It All.” The Atlantic, 2012. Web.

Dorment, Richard. “Why Men Still Can’t Have It All.” Esquire, 2013. Web.