Wednesday 25 April 2012

Babe, Is This Sexist?

Lots of voting this week's installment options, yay!  Than this week's winner is.....

"Boys Will Be Boys" 

Really, think about when you hear people using this.  It's always to explain away some bad behavior by suggesting it's no big deal, or normal for boys (or men).  It also suggests that there's no point in trying to teach boys (or men) to behave better.
(And seriously when I googled for images of this, most involved men/boys leering at women)
  • Firstly, not all boys or men behave the same way.  There are a variety of experiences, interests, and personalities that men and boys can have.  And they are not dependent on or a necessary part of being male or a man/boy!
  • Secondly, there is no reason boy children misbehave more or in different ways except for how society has socialized them.  Mischieviousness/rudeness/aggression/ and/or high levels of energy are not just for boys.  And in no way do any of these excuse bad behavior.
  • Lastly, sexism is never funny or acceptable.  I don't care if their 2 or 75, a football player or a band geek.  Acting like men objectifying women is funny and natural (and an intrinsic part of being male) is absolutely abhorrent. 
Seriously people, get over your outdated, sexist, gender essentialism. It'll do all of us, boys and girls (and everyone else) a big favor. 

Please post submissions for next week's installment of Babe, is this Sexist? in the comments.  We'll make a poll of the options and post them to our Facebook page on Monday. Remember to vote, and check back on Wed/Thur (depending on your time zone) for the next installment.

Go to the "Babe, is this Sexist?" Masterpost

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