coolbeans, 5/2

The class discussion on Tuesday on Cixous and Butler was interesting because it was a sort of open-ended discussion in which any person could take the discussion in whichever direction they chose. The topic of what a feminist is and why people are so reluctant to call themselves a feminist came up in class discussion. The reason for this I think is that many people go about their days and have not really experienced injustices. Feminists are stereotyped to always be fighting for some sort of cause so many people think that if they do not have a cause to fight for that they are not a part of the label. Another reason why some people may be reluctant to call themselves feminists is that they see the radical feminists who seem so extreme and then they see themselves their own behavior as the opposite of extreme and do not wish to be associated with it. Another interesting thing that came up in discussion was the statement that women who allow “injustices” to get to them allow themselves to be affected by them. I think that this is generally true. The best way to deal with it seems to be to ignore it. If a guy says something that could be considered degrading to a girl the best way to react would be to a) laugh about it (if it is a joke) or b) just ignore it (if it is not a joke). Both of these reactions show that one is stronger and holds control over the situation whereas if one lets it get to them one allows the situation to have control over her. It seems that many times the women who take on more “masculine” qualities do seem to gain the respect of both men and women. Women and men are just different by nature. Many of the so called “inequalities” are because of this. If we stop looking at these as inequalities but rather as personality differences then people will be much happier. Although men are paid more in the workforce than women, women are given maternity leave. It seems to be a trade-off in my opinion. Yes men are paid more, but I am sure that many men would be happy to be able to spend some extra time with their children.