Blog Response 3 - Bret Z.

Question #1 What type of sexist roles do you see in this clip? Are you surprised by these roles? Would this ever be considered a movie if it was a man (I don’t know how HE does it)? Does this media example embody what bell hooks is trying to prevent? What are other media examples that still hold on to sexist ideas? (hint, hint: This would be a good place to incorporate media into your blog post!)


On the surface, I'd say the title would constitute as sexist.  "I Don't Know How She Does It" instantly subordinates the male character, giving all credibility and praise to the maternal figure.  The clip is also slightly sexist towards women however, depicting SJP's character, and women as a majority, as creatures obsessed with order and assigning them the responsibility of practically single-handedly raising the children within a family.  I think it could be successfully marketed with a male lead, given that it would most likely be perceived as a more atypical story line, and therefore peak interest.  I don't believe the clip embodies what Bell Hooks speaks against.  I suppose you would have to examine the plot and resolution of the story; but just about anything could be subjectively attacked as sexist.  One media example that may or may not necessarily exemplify sexism, but challenges sexist ideas is the Film "Daddy Daycare", as shown here.   

Question #2 What were your initial reactions to the commercial? Why is it not okay that her daughter is not in pink? Do you think they would ever make a similar commercial with a boy in more feminine clothing? Why?


The first thing I noticed was how uncomfortable the mother looked, and how disconnected the child was from her (then again this is a commercial, so it's staged).  I think the mother feels a level of concern or even fear that her daughter is displaying masculine behaviors or preferences in respect to her clothing choice and mannerisms during play.  I wouldn't necessarily say the mother holds the opinion that her daughter should rock 100% pink, rather she just displays concern that her daughter is decked out in camouflage and cargo shorts.  No, I don't believe mainstream commercials would view it beneficial to identity with applying feminine characteristics or behaviors to young males.  The resistance they would meet would be overwhelming. 


Question #3 Name a children’s book that embodies the sexist notions that bell books discusses in this chapter. Why do you think the book has these sexist ideas? What future consequences do you think that these books have?  


I chose Winnie the Pooh to exemplify ideas of sexism with children's literature.  The main point being that the only female character, or character that embodies a feminine nature is Kanga, Roo's mother.  In fact, her bio on disney.com personifies her as the stereotypical maternal figure stating: "Kanga-Mom to Roo-is a warm, protective kangaroo.  She certainly has her hands (and pouch) full with young Roo, but she manages him with love and patience."  That fact that the writers construct her entire identity around her maternal relationship with her son, and fail to recognize and define her character as a sovereign, cotton-filled, lovable marsupial perpetuates sexist stigmas exposed to millions of children.