APPLIED PROJECT
1. Watch video: The Bechdel Test for Women in Movies
https://feministfrequency.com/video/the-bechdel-test-for-women-in-movies/
Discussion Question: If the only movies one can find that meet the Bechdel Test are so-called "girl" movies to which many (most?) men do not go what is the impact then of movies on men's view of women? And, what impact do they have on women's view of themselves?
The impact of movies on men’s view of women is that they are not featured in major movies that deserve huge following. Based on the assessment, men characterize movies based on the limited participation of women on movies. The majority expects movies to have limited number of women and the present women to either not have their names majored in the movie or talk much about themselves. For most movies that men attend, the majority of the characters are men and few women who are not featured as main characters. The impact of movies on women’s view on themselves is that they are not well-suited to major movies unless it is for girl’s movies. For big movies that needs huge number of views and subscriptions, there must be limited participation of women and more inclusion of men or matters that involve men.
2. Watch this video: https://www.ted.com/talks/megan_kamerick_women_should_represent_women_in_media
Discussion Question: Is it true that men cannot adequately represent women's views/lives/problems? What then about representing people of color? Are white or African American media representatives then unable to adequately and fully represent the issues relevant to people of Asian decent? Can those with religious affiliation only represent those from that particular religion? What about outside the media? Do the same issues pertain to other types of decision-making groups like in organizations?
It is true men cannot adequately represent the views or lives of women. This is because there is the likelihood of unconscious bias where the individual favors victims or people whom they share common traits such as fellow men at the expense of women. This results into inadequacy in representation of women by men. The same case applies to representation of people of color where the whites cannot adequately and fully represent the needs of people of color or the African Americans representing the issues of the Asians. There is an extent at which requires an individual from that specific trait to fully understand and represent the needs and issues of the group. This also applies in the case of religious affiliations. Only those in particularly religion should be responsible of representing the religion. It applies in life outside media including organizations in that an organization has to be represented by a party that understands what occurs within the organization.
3. Review this article: The Effects of the Media on Self-Esteem of Young Girls (attached)
Discussion Question: While arguably parents should have the primary responsibility for protecting their daughters (and sons) from the negative influence of media, they cannot or will not always be able to do so. What other societal institutions should be held accountable for addressing this issue? And, how should they accomplish such a goal?
One of the societal institutions that should be held responsible are the parents who ought to ensure their children live a healthy life. This involves motivating their children and girls on the need to live by their own rules and appreciate themselves. Also, parents have to avoid body-shaming others or their own children. Another social institution includes those responsible of teaching the children such as teachers whose role in addressing body-shaming is encouraging children to appreciate themselves.
4. Review this chapter in Women and Media -- A critical introduction
Chapter 5: (attched)
Discussion Question: What has changed in the last decade or two in the several areas covered by this chapter? (Select any one of the chapter topics for your analysis).
One of the areas that have changed over the decade is women’s participation in media politics where they have concentrated on participating more in politics. Women have engaged more in advocating for their involvement in the management of media and their own interests on social platforms such as media. Despite the increased discrimination, feminism has been promoted over the years with the aim of ensuring women are provided a fair ground to participate in.
5. Watch this video:
Discussion Question: We've talked all semester long about ways that you as an individual can advocate for change. What can you learn from this young woman's efforts to help you be an activist yourself?
One of the things that can be learnt from the presentation is the need to be committed to the change irrespective of the resistance and negative comments given by people. Based on her argument, there is always going to be haters or people discouraging someone of the efforts one is making. However, it is the responsibility of the change-maker to ignore the negative efforts by the opponents and focus on the ultimate goal of change.
6. Watch this video:
https://www.cnn.com/2017/06/29/health/gender-stereotypes-media-children-partner/index.html
Discussion Question: Well, does it?
Yes. Hollywood has a gender problem in that it does not represent proportional representation of women as their effort in film production. Based on the views given by the contributors, there are many women who contribute much to film production but less credit awarded to them. Also, there is much use of negative words in describing strong and empowered women.
7. Review this article: Report on What Media teach kids about gender (attached)
Discussion Question for Notes: For each section of the report what is the main point?
In the first section, the main important point is the need to appreciate the participation of women in movie quality. The second section emphasizes on the need to ensure pure representation of a particular population on matters affecting the group. The third section points out the need to use a collaborative approach in assisting girls develop high self-esteem. The fourth section highlights the persistent participation of women towards gender equity. The fifth section points out that one should be persistent and committed towards a goal regardless of the setbacks. Section six highlights the gender inequality in Hollywood with women getting a lower hand on movie and film industry.