So I realize that this issue may be a bit redundant, given that we have already discussed it in class. However, more and more recently, I see people posting articles like this one: http://jamesmsama.wordpress.com/2014/02/01/8-acts-of-chivalry-to-bring-back/ on Facebook or other social media outlets. People comment things on it saying things such as, "this is so adorable" or "oh my gosh so true". I constantly struggle with the appropriate way to handle this.
On one hand, I really long to post something along the lines of what we read in call or to call people to question their long held beliefs about chivalry. However, I tend to think that doing something like this only causes people to turn further down the anti feminist road. No one is really going to listen or question their beliefs because of someone else's rantings. It is incredibly hard to see something like this and not say anything. Has anyone else come up with an effective way to address these issues on social media?
I think one of the hard things about breaching this subject is that the people posting it seem to think they're genuinely doing something kind, or doing the right thing. However, some seem like common courtesy (give seats to the elderly [regardless of gender] and call for dates/break ups). I guess it's impossible to entirely judge someone's intentions from one example.
ReplyDeleteI don't know how to address it, all I can say is be calm about it because people are quick to point out "bitterness" or "anger" when a feminist position is brought to the table.
The thing that I think really bothers me about these chivalry talks and posts is how the author will say, "women like it when..." It creates this general assumption that women all women want to be treated similar to a princess. And personally, some of those chivalrous acts make me feel weak compared to a man, but what do you think?
ReplyDeleteThat also bothers me, when theres that general "Women like it when..". This is especially frustrating during the valentines day season. I sometimes feel like it is assumed we all have the same personality, likes, etc. But I agree, its hard to not sound like an ungrateful person, and to successfully distinguish and articulate what is patronizing and what is just common courtesy (like giving up your seat for an older person etc.)
ReplyDeletei like chivalry, i hope it never dies, but thats just my opinion
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