I want a Husband
I have always been that man of the house, attending to all the financial needs of the family. As I toil hard everyday to make a living for my children and their mother, I could not help fantasizing that I were the one who would stay at home and look after the children. I realized that I would in fact want a husband all to myself.
I would like to be the one staying at home and spending invaluable time with my children. Taking care of my beloved ones is a privilege that I would want to enjoy everyday in my life. I want a husband who will support me and provide me with all his means. I want a husband who works hard for the family 12 hours a day, 7 days in the week. I want a husband who makes sure that the children are well-behaved and filial. I want a husband who spends time with his family every weekend. I want a husband who brings the family on holidays every three months, because the family must spend time together. I want a husband who controls his temper and keeps his emotion to himself, so that the children will have a good role model. My husband must provide for the family and understand the needs of all family members. If my husband needs to finish his work, he will have to do so at night after the family has gone to sleep.
I want a husband who can understand my emotional needs. I want a husband that can laugh with me when I laugh. I want a husband that can lend me his shoulder when I cry. I want a husband that can always make me happy, even if it embarrasses him. I want a husband that buys me present often. I want a husband that listens attentively when I nag, complain and rant. I want a husband who can let me unleash my anger and stress from a day of work. I want a husband who does not quarrel or retaliate. I want a husband that is my punching bag, my teddy bear.
I want a husband who can satisfy my sexual needs. Which women won't want to have good and passionate sex anytime they feel like it? My man has to be able to satisfy my desire whenever I demand it and to keep his distance when I am not in the mood for it. I want a husband who will be completely faithful to me. And it mean no contact with females other than me, absolutely no contact at all. He, on the other hand, will not complain however close I may be with another guy. After all, he alone could not possibly satisfy me completely.
I want a husband who is physically attractive. They say men fall in love through their eyes and women fall in love through they ears. Well, they’re lying. Let’s face reality, we are all superficial beings one way or another. I want a husband who not only have to toil from morning to night, but also set aside enough time to doll himself up, making himself gorgeous from head to toe. I want a husband who would not only bring material needs to family, but also bring good genes, so that our children would have a higher possibility of being good looking. I want a husband, who not only spends time with his family at every possible moment of his life, but make sure he’s well-groomed at all times. I want a husband who’d toil all his life just to bring food to the table, but still have enough vigor to go to the gym weekly to keep his toned body in shape. I want a husband who would bring not only wealth prestige to the family, but also be a trophy husband.
Who doesn’t want such a husband?
by: jiwei, weiliang, chenxuan, yonsheng of 09s06j
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Monday, April 21, 2008
Video Reflection
Our group believes that the video has more or less produced an accurate portrayal of the differences in gender behaviour.
As exemplified by the video, there are striking differences in the reactions of men and women to congruent situations such as that of the watching of the romantic film. Women tend, according to numerous scientific studies, to be more emotional, and tend to be more people centred. However, therefore we question, are such behaviours part of nuture or nature?
However, there is one point of contention. The scene from the video depicts the differences between the woman and the man upon reaching home, seems far too stereotypical and perhaps just slightly outdated. In today's age and society, it is no longer uncommon to meet families where parents divide the chores equally. Alternatively, there is also the option of hired help, full-time or part-time. Thus, this scene is most unconvincing due to the paradigm shift in society.
Thus, in conclusion, we feel that while this animation points out the common glaring differences between the behaviours of the two genders, however, it is perhaps slightly outdated and thus provides a slight misrepresentation of current society gender differences.
Michelle, Claire, Brian, Trung, Qiwei
As exemplified by the video, there are striking differences in the reactions of men and women to congruent situations such as that of the watching of the romantic film. Women tend, according to numerous scientific studies, to be more emotional, and tend to be more people centred. However, therefore we question, are such behaviours part of nuture or nature?
However, there is one point of contention. The scene from the video depicts the differences between the woman and the man upon reaching home, seems far too stereotypical and perhaps just slightly outdated. In today's age and society, it is no longer uncommon to meet families where parents divide the chores equally. Alternatively, there is also the option of hired help, full-time or part-time. Thus, this scene is most unconvincing due to the paradigm shift in society.
Thus, in conclusion, we feel that while this animation points out the common glaring differences between the behaviours of the two genders, however, it is perhaps slightly outdated and thus provides a slight misrepresentation of current society gender differences.
Michelle, Claire, Brian, Trung, Qiwei
Reflection on video
The animation created by Bruno Bozzetto focuses on the societal stereotypes of men and women. It portrays the differences in the behaviour of males and females, and our group is in agreement with most of the stereotypes shown in the video.
The video has been fairly accurate in pointing out the different verbal patterns between males and females due to the difference in the construction of our brains. Research has shown that females are able to multi-task better and are able to speak in a more cognitive manner. Also, females react more sensitively to their emotions, thus are more prone to expressing their emotions while doing simple things such as watching a movie.
However, our group disagrees with the point where men return home after work to have a range of relaxation activities, while women return home only to start working on housework. In this current day and age, the employment rate of maids in Singapore has been increasing and hence more and more households have a reliance on maids to do the housekeeping. As such, working women are no longer greeted by a list of chores upon returning home.
In addition, the female working class has been gradually increasing in recent years due to a higher value being placed on education. In this way, working women do get opportunities to travel overseas on business trips, as opposed to the message brought across by the video whereby they are constantly being tied down by familial responsibilities.
In conclusion, stereotypes vary over the years as societal values change gradually. Although some stereotypes are true to real life, our group feels that it is important to judge others as we see them, rather than basing our judgments on certain stereotypes as stereotypes do not necessarily apply to each and everyone of us, but instead only present the common trends in society.
- Baorong, Bryan A., Melissa, Ruisi (09S06J)
The video has been fairly accurate in pointing out the different verbal patterns between males and females due to the difference in the construction of our brains. Research has shown that females are able to multi-task better and are able to speak in a more cognitive manner. Also, females react more sensitively to their emotions, thus are more prone to expressing their emotions while doing simple things such as watching a movie.
However, our group disagrees with the point where men return home after work to have a range of relaxation activities, while women return home only to start working on housework. In this current day and age, the employment rate of maids in Singapore has been increasing and hence more and more households have a reliance on maids to do the housekeeping. As such, working women are no longer greeted by a list of chores upon returning home.
In addition, the female working class has been gradually increasing in recent years due to a higher value being placed on education. In this way, working women do get opportunities to travel overseas on business trips, as opposed to the message brought across by the video whereby they are constantly being tied down by familial responsibilities.
In conclusion, stereotypes vary over the years as societal values change gradually. Although some stereotypes are true to real life, our group feels that it is important to judge others as we see them, rather than basing our judgments on certain stereotypes as stereotypes do not necessarily apply to each and everyone of us, but instead only present the common trends in society.
- Baorong, Bryan A., Melissa, Ruisi (09S06J)
video reflection! (:
The video is stereotypical as it overgeneralises the male and female characteristics and only represents the majority without considering exceptions. Thus, it's accurate only to some extent.
Some of the stereotypes are actually good representitives of male and female idiosyncracies. Examples are the one on going to the toilets and the one about watching a romantic movie. We think that the differences are due to our different genetic make up. Most women are by nature more sensitive to emotions and thus would be able to appreciate romantic movies more than males.
However, some of the stereotypes are outdated and old-fashioned in our opinion. This is due to the changing social views where the line seperating both gender roles is becoming less clear. For example, the scene which shows what a guy or a girl does when he or she reaches home is too stereotypical. Nowadays, women are redusingly associated with housework while some men are increasingly sharing the housework. Therefore, not many women go home and immediately start cleaning the house and males might not just go home and sleep or watch soccer.
(:
members: lionel, serene, andrea, toan, xiaoxiao xD
Some of the stereotypes are actually good representitives of male and female idiosyncracies. Examples are the one on going to the toilets and the one about watching a romantic movie. We think that the differences are due to our different genetic make up. Most women are by nature more sensitive to emotions and thus would be able to appreciate romantic movies more than males.
However, some of the stereotypes are outdated and old-fashioned in our opinion. This is due to the changing social views where the line seperating both gender roles is becoming less clear. For example, the scene which shows what a guy or a girl does when he or she reaches home is too stereotypical. Nowadays, women are redusingly associated with housework while some men are increasingly sharing the housework. Therefore, not many women go home and immediately start cleaning the house and males might not just go home and sleep or watch soccer.
(:
members: lionel, serene, andrea, toan, xiaoxiao xD
Response to Bruno Bozzetto's Animation
The animation “Men vs Women” by Bruno bozzetto is a representation of the differing habits of men and women as assumed within the society. Upon watching and analyzing it, our group feels that it is generally accurate in portraying the distinct characteristics of men and women and their behavioural patterns in different scenarios.
We found the stereotypes generally true because they reflect the innate personality traits of men and women as they are transformed into actions. The reactions when viewed confirmed the credibility of the stereotypes. For example, when a true and applicable comparison was shown, laughter would ensue as we observe these trends in our daily life around us. As shown in the animation, women have a higher tendency to bawl their eyes out while watching romantic movies because they are more in touch with their venereal side and can empathize with the lead artistes who are being antagonized by affairs of the heart. Men, meanwhile, are more probable to find such shows mundane to a certain extent as their mindset is likely to be more practical and less emotive. It is difficult for a man to get attached to fictitious characters within a couple of hours and the lack of action will make it boring for him. Similarly, men have a more organised and straightforward mind. This concept is shown by the portrayal of the differences in the handbags of a man and woman. Men are likely to carry only what they need like keys, money, etc while women carry excess items like soft toys, lipsticks, powder, etc. This proves that men are more task oriented than women who do not mind unnecessary happenings.
However, this animation cannot be described as fully representative of the social behaviours of men and women. There are still parts of it which are too exaggerated and blown out of truth or relation For example, the animation regarding the differences in conversation was too vague. True, that men have conversations that are focused on a single topic which can be mundane. However, the depiction of a female conversation was unrealistic. The flowers gave the impression that conversation topics were frivolous and disorganised. They portrayed the topics as being unimportant and irrelevant. However, this is untrue and saying that women talk about worthless things would be outrageous. Similarly, a woman coming home does not revert to a maid’s job at home. Wifely duties are not confined to domestic chores. A modern day successful woman is also financially independent and can have other interests similar to a man.
In conclusion, we feel that while this animation brings about awareness among us regarding the various differences between men and women, it is an exaggeration and to an extent an inaccurate representation of the stereotypes present in the society.
Elaine, Abs, Nicholas, Thomas
We found the stereotypes generally true because they reflect the innate personality traits of men and women as they are transformed into actions. The reactions when viewed confirmed the credibility of the stereotypes. For example, when a true and applicable comparison was shown, laughter would ensue as we observe these trends in our daily life around us. As shown in the animation, women have a higher tendency to bawl their eyes out while watching romantic movies because they are more in touch with their venereal side and can empathize with the lead artistes who are being antagonized by affairs of the heart. Men, meanwhile, are more probable to find such shows mundane to a certain extent as their mindset is likely to be more practical and less emotive. It is difficult for a man to get attached to fictitious characters within a couple of hours and the lack of action will make it boring for him. Similarly, men have a more organised and straightforward mind. This concept is shown by the portrayal of the differences in the handbags of a man and woman. Men are likely to carry only what they need like keys, money, etc while women carry excess items like soft toys, lipsticks, powder, etc. This proves that men are more task oriented than women who do not mind unnecessary happenings.
However, this animation cannot be described as fully representative of the social behaviours of men and women. There are still parts of it which are too exaggerated and blown out of truth or relation For example, the animation regarding the differences in conversation was too vague. True, that men have conversations that are focused on a single topic which can be mundane. However, the depiction of a female conversation was unrealistic. The flowers gave the impression that conversation topics were frivolous and disorganised. They portrayed the topics as being unimportant and irrelevant. However, this is untrue and saying that women talk about worthless things would be outrageous. Similarly, a woman coming home does not revert to a maid’s job at home. Wifely duties are not confined to domestic chores. A modern day successful woman is also financially independent and can have other interests similar to a man.
In conclusion, we feel that while this animation brings about awareness among us regarding the various differences between men and women, it is an exaggeration and to an extent an inaccurate representation of the stereotypes present in the society.
Elaine, Abs, Nicholas, Thomas
Sunday, April 20, 2008
I Want a Husband
I belong to that classification of people known as husbands. I am A Husband. And, not altogether incidentally, I am a father.
Not too long ago, a female friend of mine appeared on the scene fresh from a recent divorce. She had one child, who is, of course, with her ex-husband. She is obviously looking for another husband. As I thought about her while I was watching soccer one evening, it suddenly occurred to me that I, too, would really like to have a wonderful husband, just like she had. Why do I want a husband?
I want a husband who makes me want him over and over again, each time hurting me like before, but it is alright because at least I get to feel wanted. I want a husband who starts balding at the age of fifty, because I find it very attractive and sexy. I want a husband who looks at other women when I am out with him because he will not be bored that way. I want a husband who is never satisfied with one woman because I believe in the saying “the more, the merrier”. I want a husband who is really hairy because I have an undying love for gorillas. I want a husband who wears the same clothes all the time for many days straight because I enjoy routine. I want a husband who always gets drunk because that means he likes letting go and escaping from his problems. Isn’t that a much better solution? I want a husband who thinks that I should always be in the kitchen because that means he thinks highly of my culinary skills. I want a husband who treats me differently in front of his friends and at home because variety is always good. I may get bored if he treats me nicely all the time. I want a husband who is absolutely obsessed with his physique and muscle mass, because the Incredible Hulk would make a really great spouse. I want a husband who is always thinking about sex because that means he exudes masculinity. I want a husband who demands sex as and when he feels like it because that gives me the opportunity to provide him with pleasurable experiences. I want a husband who does not assume any responsibility at all for birth control because I do not think protection is necessary, and I want as many children as possible so that I will be kept busy all the time. I want a husband who only knows how to lie on the couch and watch soccer because that shows that he knows how to de-stress and enjoy life. I want a husband who leaves the house messy all the time because I enjoy packing and cleaning up after him.
I would never be able to find a husband more suitable than the husband I already have. When I am through with school and have a job, I want a husband who will continue working 24/7 and leave me alone at home with the children because I know he is bringing in the cash we need, and work is always topmost priority.
My God, who wouldn’t want a husband?
Done by: Shiyang, Joel, Yan De, Yadi & Chelsia
Not too long ago, a female friend of mine appeared on the scene fresh from a recent divorce. She had one child, who is, of course, with her ex-husband. She is obviously looking for another husband. As I thought about her while I was watching soccer one evening, it suddenly occurred to me that I, too, would really like to have a wonderful husband, just like she had. Why do I want a husband?
I want a husband who makes me want him over and over again, each time hurting me like before, but it is alright because at least I get to feel wanted. I want a husband who starts balding at the age of fifty, because I find it very attractive and sexy. I want a husband who looks at other women when I am out with him because he will not be bored that way. I want a husband who is never satisfied with one woman because I believe in the saying “the more, the merrier”. I want a husband who is really hairy because I have an undying love for gorillas. I want a husband who wears the same clothes all the time for many days straight because I enjoy routine. I want a husband who always gets drunk because that means he likes letting go and escaping from his problems. Isn’t that a much better solution? I want a husband who thinks that I should always be in the kitchen because that means he thinks highly of my culinary skills. I want a husband who treats me differently in front of his friends and at home because variety is always good. I may get bored if he treats me nicely all the time. I want a husband who is absolutely obsessed with his physique and muscle mass, because the Incredible Hulk would make a really great spouse. I want a husband who is always thinking about sex because that means he exudes masculinity. I want a husband who demands sex as and when he feels like it because that gives me the opportunity to provide him with pleasurable experiences. I want a husband who does not assume any responsibility at all for birth control because I do not think protection is necessary, and I want as many children as possible so that I will be kept busy all the time. I want a husband who only knows how to lie on the couch and watch soccer because that shows that he knows how to de-stress and enjoy life. I want a husband who leaves the house messy all the time because I enjoy packing and cleaning up after him.
I would never be able to find a husband more suitable than the husband I already have. When I am through with school and have a job, I want a husband who will continue working 24/7 and leave me alone at home with the children because I know he is bringing in the cash we need, and work is always topmost priority.
My God, who wouldn’t want a husband?
Done by: Shiyang, Joel, Yan De, Yadi & Chelsia
Women vs Men - Funny Animation by Bruno Bozzetto
This animation is basically about STEREOTYPES, about society's supposed general perception of males and females and the differences between males and females.
First and foremost, our group feels that these stereotypes do exist and are true (ie. women spend a longer time getting ready to go out because a lot of women apply make up before going out, something men do not generally do). A stereotype we would like to raise is the one whereby women are shown to spend a lot more time shopping as compared to men. We think that this could be due to the fact that a lot of advertisements/industries are targeted at women. For example, during runway shows of brands that carry both female and male lines, it can be seen that most of the clothes showcased are for women, rather than showcasing an equal amount of male clothing. In addition, most of the fashion magazines are targeted at females. Hence, it can be said that women generally spend a longer time on shopping because they have more choices to choose from.
However, this does not necessarily mean that males and females fit their stereotypes. As such, we must be careful to note that we should not form impressions based on stereotypes because everyone is unique (:
Done by:
Yiksin, Edith, Christian, Yu Wen
09S07A (:
First and foremost, our group feels that these stereotypes do exist and are true (ie. women spend a longer time getting ready to go out because a lot of women apply make up before going out, something men do not generally do). A stereotype we would like to raise is the one whereby women are shown to spend a lot more time shopping as compared to men. We think that this could be due to the fact that a lot of advertisements/industries are targeted at women. For example, during runway shows of brands that carry both female and male lines, it can be seen that most of the clothes showcased are for women, rather than showcasing an equal amount of male clothing. In addition, most of the fashion magazines are targeted at females. Hence, it can be said that women generally spend a longer time on shopping because they have more choices to choose from.
However, this does not necessarily mean that males and females fit their stereotypes. As such, we must be careful to note that we should not form impressions based on stereotypes because everyone is unique (:
Done by:
Yiksin, Edith, Christian, Yu Wen
09S07A (:
I Want A Husband
I want a husband who will take care of my financial needs. He is intellectual and watches CNN all night long. I want a husband who will earn big bucks at the office. He may come back a lil late but I know he is working hard. I want a husband who wears a nice suit along with a tie. He is the breadwinner and an important man. I want a husband that drives a mean car. A Ferrari or Lambo, both are really neat.
I want a husband who has a perfect physique. He is big and muscular, with a six pac too. I want a husband who is sporty. He plays with the children and keeps them lean. I want a husband who is masculine. He always wears black and never pink. I want a husband with scruffy hair. He is into rugby and soccer too.
I want a husband who snores a lot. He is my alarm clock, even though it rings a bit too much. I want a husband who will eat what I cook. Even though he never thanks me for the food, I know he appreciates it very much. I want a husband who doesn't praise me. He may not compliment much, but it keeps me humble. I want a husband who is educated. A PSLE graduate will do just alright. I want a husband who reads the news with his breakfast. He is intellectual, that's what he does.
I want a husband who brings home his friends. They watch soccer on the couch, but this allows me to make more friends. I want a husband who drinks alcohol and brings back booze. He tells me to take a sip once a while even though it tastes a bit bad.
I want a husband who satisfies my sexual desires. He gives me a kiss when he comes home. He has an all endearing smile that melts my heart. I want a husband who craves for sex. He makes love passionately and makes sure I am satisfied.
I want a husband who will marry me. He will propose with a 5 carat ring when sailing through the carribean. I want a husband who will bring me to Switzerland on our honeymoon. He may actually be on a business trip, but it doesn't matter still.
I want my husband to work forever so that I can live freely.
My God, who wouldn't want a husband?
By abi kang, timothy, justin, zhefei
09SO7A!
I want a husband who has a perfect physique. He is big and muscular, with a six pac too. I want a husband who is sporty. He plays with the children and keeps them lean. I want a husband who is masculine. He always wears black and never pink. I want a husband with scruffy hair. He is into rugby and soccer too.
I want a husband who snores a lot. He is my alarm clock, even though it rings a bit too much. I want a husband who will eat what I cook. Even though he never thanks me for the food, I know he appreciates it very much. I want a husband who doesn't praise me. He may not compliment much, but it keeps me humble. I want a husband who is educated. A PSLE graduate will do just alright. I want a husband who reads the news with his breakfast. He is intellectual, that's what he does.
I want a husband who brings home his friends. They watch soccer on the couch, but this allows me to make more friends. I want a husband who drinks alcohol and brings back booze. He tells me to take a sip once a while even though it tastes a bit bad.
I want a husband who satisfies my sexual desires. He gives me a kiss when he comes home. He has an all endearing smile that melts my heart. I want a husband who craves for sex. He makes love passionately and makes sure I am satisfied.
I want a husband who will marry me. He will propose with a 5 carat ring when sailing through the carribean. I want a husband who will bring me to Switzerland on our honeymoon. He may actually be on a business trip, but it doesn't matter still.
I want my husband to work forever so that I can live freely.
My God, who wouldn't want a husband?
By abi kang, timothy, justin, zhefei
09SO7A!
Video: Women VS Men – Animation by Bruno Bozzetto Reflection
A gender role is defined as a set of perceived behavioural norms associated particularly with males or females, in a given social group or system. The clip shows a generalisation of the actions and behaviours of the two genders. Some may find the video clip to be realistic and true to a large extent as they have witnessed or come across such circumstances in life. However, others may be critical and said that it is just a stereotypical view of males and females. Well, our group agrees with this stand. The pervasiveness of the media has contributed largely to the way society perceives each gender to behave or act. These beliefs have been embedded in our consciousness that many think that gender roles are natural, without questions. Everyone is born with different personalities and character traits. Therefore it is unfair to judge people by these gender roles and categorise them into feminine and masculine persons. Furthermore, these terms restricts people as some may try too hard to be someone that they are not, just to ‘fit’ into these gender stereotype boxes. Thus, we should free ourselves from these societal beliefs and be proud to be who we truly are.
Done by: Ying Ying, Abigail Ho, Ewen, Xue Qian, Jonathan 09S07A
Men vs Women
The video reflected the distinct differences between the habits and behavior of males and females. It managed to effectively drive its point on the dissimilarity of the two sexes by animating, in an exaggerated manner (eg. seduction by males), our typical day-to-day tendencies, without the list becoming too exhaustive.
There were many scenarios reenacted (such as coming home, speaking, dieting, going to the toilet), each which provoked a different magnitude of response, mainly laughter due to its farcical nature. However, such reactions were not mere laughter, but rather thoughtful laughter, which first require prior knowledge about the events. It is interesting to note that the scene that generated the most laughter were the ones that the audience were guilty of committing themselves, having the element of truth, thus they were able to relate to the event portrayed (besides the scene of seduction of course!). Those who were able to see themselves in that seen responded most violently. For example, the scene of dieting (which is common occurrence among the teenagers of today) revealed the painful truth to the audience that females usually do not stick to their diets. The scene depicting the trip to the toilet was also especially memorable because this behaviour is commonly seen in the members of our class.
The clip ended off posting a question to the audience: whether all of the scenes were stereotypes. Though we agree that the gender stereotypes portrayed in this video are typically true of male and female behaviour, it must be noted that this is not applicable to everyone, since each person might have their own eccentricities and habits. But it is undeniable that these are common trends not only in communities, but seen around the world. (The animator being an Italian, and we Singaporean students could understand his message.) These have led to the development of stereotypes, labeling certain behaviours to different sexes.
Benkhoo, Cheryl, Joel, Yingxin, Zoe09S06H
A Good Husband’s Guide
1. Listen to your wife’s complains, she has worked hard and deserves to be heard.
2. Praise your wife if she has done something good.
3. Share the work of doing the household chores without being asked to do so.
4. Come home on time, if you are late, a valid reason must be given. You should buy a gift for your wife as a form of apology.
5. Praise her looks when you returned home because she is making an effort to appear refreshed after your long day at work.
6. Be happy to see her. Greet her with a warm smile. Don’t greet her with complaints and problems.
7. Understand that she is making an effort to keep the house peaceful and orderly even if it isn’t so when you arrive home.
8. Try to enjoy the meal that she has prepared because she has probably spent a lot of effort thinking about what to cook for dinner.
9. Prepare dinner or offer to treat your wife to a good meal outside if she looks too tired.
10. Do not go home with a tired look on your face; it will only make her worry. Make light conversation and try to explain to her how tiring your day.
11. Tell her about your day. It is only natural for her to want to know more about your day.
12. Talk to her nicely and do not shout.
13. Listen to her too if she has something to say.
14. Do not question her actions or judgements. Even though you are the master of the house, she also has her own rights and fairness.
15. Wait patiently while your wife dresses up, she is only trying to look good for you. Compliment on her attire when she is ready.
16. Remember all the important days (example: wedding anniversary and birthdays) and prepare something special for her, that is the least you can do.
17. Praise her for keeping the house clean.
18. Give her a day off at least once a week.
19. Make an effort to take care of the children everyday after work.
20. Hire a maid to share the workload if necessary.
21. Thank her for preparing the fire during the cooler months.
22. Take note of the “time of the month” for your wife and be extra caring and concerned during those few days. Do understand that it is an uncomfortable period for her and she deserves to be pampered.
23. “Show off” your wife to your friends. She would love to know the people in your social circle. If you keep your wife at home, she’ll only think that you are embarrassed to bring her out.
24. Do not criticize her in front of your friends, she has done so much for you and you should appreciate her.
25. Carry the shopping bags for your wife. It is the simplest thing you can do as a good husband.
26. Be supportive of your wife in whatever she does and back her up in her endeavors.
27. Do not make empty promises. If you are not confident of fulfilling her wishes, be honest with her.
28. Be faithful to your wife.
29. A good husband will always love, honor and pamper his wife.
30. A good husband knows that he has a good wife and treats her with fairness, respect and love.
31. A good husband should not watch pornography, if only because his wife will feel jealous and possibly sexually inadequate. Furthermore, watching such erotic material is improper and unseemly.
32. A good husband should not pressure his wife into having sexual intercourse when she does not want to do so. However, he should be eager to fulfill her every sexual want and fantasy. He should also be willing to be the submissive partner in such activities when asked to.
1. Listen to your wife’s complains, she has worked hard and deserves to be heard.
2. Praise your wife if she has done something good.
3. Share the work of doing the household chores without being asked to do so.
4. Come home on time, if you are late, a valid reason must be given. You should buy a gift for your wife as a form of apology.
5. Praise her looks when you returned home because she is making an effort to appear refreshed after your long day at work.
6. Be happy to see her. Greet her with a warm smile. Don’t greet her with complaints and problems.
7. Understand that she is making an effort to keep the house peaceful and orderly even if it isn’t so when you arrive home.
8. Try to enjoy the meal that she has prepared because she has probably spent a lot of effort thinking about what to cook for dinner.
9. Prepare dinner or offer to treat your wife to a good meal outside if she looks too tired.
10. Do not go home with a tired look on your face; it will only make her worry. Make light conversation and try to explain to her how tiring your day.
11. Tell her about your day. It is only natural for her to want to know more about your day.
12. Talk to her nicely and do not shout.
13. Listen to her too if she has something to say.
14. Do not question her actions or judgements. Even though you are the master of the house, she also has her own rights and fairness.
15. Wait patiently while your wife dresses up, she is only trying to look good for you. Compliment on her attire when she is ready.
16. Remember all the important days (example: wedding anniversary and birthdays) and prepare something special for her, that is the least you can do.
17. Praise her for keeping the house clean.
18. Give her a day off at least once a week.
19. Make an effort to take care of the children everyday after work.
20. Hire a maid to share the workload if necessary.
21. Thank her for preparing the fire during the cooler months.
22. Take note of the “time of the month” for your wife and be extra caring and concerned during those few days. Do understand that it is an uncomfortable period for her and she deserves to be pampered.
23. “Show off” your wife to your friends. She would love to know the people in your social circle. If you keep your wife at home, she’ll only think that you are embarrassed to bring her out.
24. Do not criticize her in front of your friends, she has done so much for you and you should appreciate her.
25. Carry the shopping bags for your wife. It is the simplest thing you can do as a good husband.
26. Be supportive of your wife in whatever she does and back her up in her endeavors.
27. Do not make empty promises. If you are not confident of fulfilling her wishes, be honest with her.
28. Be faithful to your wife.
29. A good husband will always love, honor and pamper his wife.
30. A good husband knows that he has a good wife and treats her with fairness, respect and love.
31. A good husband should not watch pornography, if only because his wife will feel jealous and possibly sexually inadequate. Furthermore, watching such erotic material is improper and unseemly.
32. A good husband should not pressure his wife into having sexual intercourse when she does not want to do so. However, he should be eager to fulfill her every sexual want and fantasy. He should also be willing to be the submissive partner in such activities when asked to.
Rui Ting, Shi Hua, Samantha, Hong Xiu
09S07A
I want a husband ...
I want a Husband
Not long ago, I read an article entitled “I want a Wife”. As I was pondering its contents, it suddenly occurred to me that I would like to have a husband.
I want a husband so that he can provide me with extra revenue. I want a husband that will not demand accounts of my expenditure. I want a husband who is ambitious and hardworking, constantly striving to improve our social status and ensure our financial well-being. I want a husband who is of high social status, who commands the respect of others.
I want a husband who will provide me a shoulder to cry on, who will sympathise with my plight, and will shower me with love and care. I want a husband who will look after me in times of illness. I want a husband who comes home early and takes days off to spend time with the family. I want a husband who does not drink, smoke or have violent tendencies. I want a husband who will be a positive influence to the children, who will play an important role in parenting. I want a husband who has the interests of the children at heart, who aids them in their education.
I want a husband who will chauffeur me around when I require it, and put my convenience before his. I want a husband who is always ready to lend a helping hand whenever and wherever I require it. I want husband who is faithful, so that I do not have to clutter my intellectual life with jealousies. I want a husband who is not choosy, who never berates me on my cooking or other household chores, but instead appreciates the hard work I put in for him. I want a husband who is always supportive of what I do, and will back me up in all my endeavours. Of course, I also want a husband who readily resolves conflicts and is always ready to respond to emergencies.
If, by change, I find another person more suitable as a husband than the husband I already have, I want the liberty to replace my present husband with another one. Naturally, I will expect a fresh, new life, and my new husband should be able to perform exceedingly well at the tasks I have so dictated.
My God, who wouldn’t want a husband?
Not long ago, I read an article entitled “I want a Wife”. As I was pondering its contents, it suddenly occurred to me that I would like to have a husband.
I want a husband so that he can provide me with extra revenue. I want a husband that will not demand accounts of my expenditure. I want a husband who is ambitious and hardworking, constantly striving to improve our social status and ensure our financial well-being. I want a husband who is of high social status, who commands the respect of others.
I want a husband who will provide me a shoulder to cry on, who will sympathise with my plight, and will shower me with love and care. I want a husband who will look after me in times of illness. I want a husband who comes home early and takes days off to spend time with the family. I want a husband who does not drink, smoke or have violent tendencies. I want a husband who will be a positive influence to the children, who will play an important role in parenting. I want a husband who has the interests of the children at heart, who aids them in their education.
I want a husband who will chauffeur me around when I require it, and put my convenience before his. I want a husband who is always ready to lend a helping hand whenever and wherever I require it. I want husband who is faithful, so that I do not have to clutter my intellectual life with jealousies. I want a husband who is not choosy, who never berates me on my cooking or other household chores, but instead appreciates the hard work I put in for him. I want a husband who is always supportive of what I do, and will back me up in all my endeavours. Of course, I also want a husband who readily resolves conflicts and is always ready to respond to emergencies.
If, by change, I find another person more suitable as a husband than the husband I already have, I want the liberty to replace my present husband with another one. Naturally, I will expect a fresh, new life, and my new husband should be able to perform exceedingly well at the tasks I have so dictated.
My God, who wouldn’t want a husband?
Video: Women VS Men – Animation by Bruno Bozzetto
In a nutshell, this video introduces to us the gender stereotypes as perceived by society between men and women, specifically how the same types of activities are undertaken differently by the different sexes.
For example, women usually spend more time in a particular shop looking at all the goods on sale in comparison to the male, and women usually have more items including makeup kits, hairbrushes etcetera in their handbags compared to men. As such, this video may seem to be a rather accurate representation of what happens in society, in terms of the specific and definite ways which women and men conduct themselves differently.
Although such differences may not necessarily be negative ones, they may stem from gender differences. For example, women generally spend more time dolling themselves up while men do not need to do so because it is widely perceived as necessary for women to look elegant in public for one to have a good impression of her. Also, traditionally, the role of women in society is to be in charge of domestic matters such as serving her husband, looking after the children and doing household chores like the cleaning of the house, cooking, etc. This is because men are generally seen to be able to handle tough and more ‘superior’ business affairs more capably than women, who are seen to be more suited for the ‘inferior’ domestic affairs.
As such, typical characteristics of women can be seen from this video, that they are submissive and subservient to men while being weak in many other aspects as well. For instance, as portrayed in the film, men are able to go on a more effective diet as compared to women, and the former is able to hold back his emotions as compared to the latter after watching a romantic movie. Also, during *ahem* seduction, women are portrayed to be the ones who are taken advantage of, rather than men.
Yet, the video is becoming an increasingly farcical depiction of the gender stereotype that exists in the present society. This social product of activity is neither static nor perpetual, and hence changes with the time and social ideology changes. In the past, such gender differences would seem more appropriate and more in tune with society. However, this portrayal is not an accurate representation of women of the current society. Women of the 21st century are in fact less conservative about defying the female stereotype, and outstanding females like Hillary Clinton, Condoleezza Rice and Ho Ching are definitely testimonies to such a notion. Females are increasingly entering what were previously men’s domains such as politics and commerce. While actions like how women speak, their need to dress up, their reactions when watching a romantic movie may not have changed, there is an increasing trend in women going on business trips, and an increasing number of househusbands who take care of the domestic duties while women go out to work.
Additionally, unlike that depicted in the film whereby men hope to marry women who are able to carry out domestic duties, men of the present society may tend to marry those they love, regardless of their ability to carry out domestic duties. This is perhaps due to a more open-minded mindset of our generation, such that the aforementioned factor has dropped in terms priority when choosing their ideal partner. Also, an interesting point in the video is how women expect the ‘ideal’ men to share their burden and do the household chores as well. However, this notion is not true vice versa. This might hint to viewers as to how women are not the most content doing these domestic duties and would rather have their partners lend them a helping hand, or perhaps, it might be that women feel that they are would rather, and are capable doing something ‘tougher’ that are usually associated with men e.g. business-related jobs.
Vionna, Sabrina, Ivan, Nicholas, Eugene09S07A
A take on Bozetto's take.
The video by Bruno Bozetto, to us, is a play on gender stereotypes, as by watching this summary, we gain a glimpse of the truths behind the stereotypes, yet the tone of the video suggests that we should not take it too seriously, not hold it as the ultimate truth of the matter regarding differences in male and female behaviour and responses in the same circumstances.
The reflected truth in this matter is apparent in some of the more common examples, such as when visiting the toilet, shopping, or even during meals. In these cases, men are portrayed as direct, to the point, and individualistic, whereas females are shown to cling together in herds and go off tangent in their conversation.
The video actually does have a fairly accurate representation of the gender stereotypes present in our society today, but do keep in mind that stereotypes, by definition, are oversimplified images of a particular group of people. There is thus this barrier, this "cap" as to the truth that can be displayed within the video. Even this simplification is acknowledge and represented all over in the video, with the reduction of the different sexes into two simple geometric shapes. In a way, this oversimplification acts as a disclaimer, informing the viewer of the informality of information presented.
With the amount of exaggeration relative to the volume of truth within the video, it is undeniably a parody of stereotypes nowadays, despite several cases of accurate depiction. However, it must be mentioned that in this digital age, entertainment tends to get the point across much better than formal presentation, and thus this video does have a much heavier impact than perhaps a documentary made in the same amount of time, causing viewers to ponder about gender stereotypes.
The reflected truth in this matter is apparent in some of the more common examples, such as when visiting the toilet, shopping, or even during meals. In these cases, men are portrayed as direct, to the point, and individualistic, whereas females are shown to cling together in herds and go off tangent in their conversation.
The video actually does have a fairly accurate representation of the gender stereotypes present in our society today, but do keep in mind that stereotypes, by definition, are oversimplified images of a particular group of people. There is thus this barrier, this "cap" as to the truth that can be displayed within the video. Even this simplification is acknowledge and represented all over in the video, with the reduction of the different sexes into two simple geometric shapes. In a way, this oversimplification acts as a disclaimer, informing the viewer of the informality of information presented.
With the amount of exaggeration relative to the volume of truth within the video, it is undeniably a parody of stereotypes nowadays, despite several cases of accurate depiction. However, it must be mentioned that in this digital age, entertainment tends to get the point across much better than formal presentation, and thus this video does have a much heavier impact than perhaps a documentary made in the same amount of time, causing viewers to ponder about gender stereotypes.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Gender stereotypes video by Bruno
Our group feels that even though the traits seem like gender stereotypes, they may not necessarily be so. Some of the traits seem quite true even in just the context of our class. For example, there seems to be a trend where every time a girl goes to the toilet, the entire group of girls will go together. Another example that can be observed in class would be that of the contents of bags. There really seems to be more random items (such as soft toys) in women's bags than men's.
For some of the other traits, such as discussions, which was portrayed as mass talking for women and arena showdowns for men, we feel that it may not be true. It may be a little true that discussions between men tend to be more debate-like at times, but from what we observe in class, women definitely do not all talk at the same time. However with regards to talking, where men's talk are portrayed to be straight to the point and militarilistic while women's talk are portrayed to be confusing and going all over the place, we must admit that it seems quite true, as there tends to be more digressions in conversations between girls.
One gender difference that we observed but was not mentioned in the video can be that of speed. Boys tend to eat and walk faster while girls prefer to take things slow. This interesting observation pointed us in another direction: do people tend to conform to stereotypes? Society has structured differences between men and women in such a way that we are taught to conform with these stereotypes, hence making the trend more valids and confirming the stereotypes. Let's go back to eating, for example, where women are encouraged to maintain a gentle image and eat slowly, while men are encouraged to eat quickly in pursuit of effeciency. Anyone who fails to conform will be labelled as "tomboyish" or "sissy".
In conclusion, we feel that most of the traits shown in the video are rather valid, with only very few stereotypes. However, there may have been a lot more stereotypes in the past, only that we tend to conform to these stereotypes and turning the stereotypes into real-life observations.
Tu Guang, Jasmine, Wenyu, Amanda
09s06H
For some of the other traits, such as discussions, which was portrayed as mass talking for women and arena showdowns for men, we feel that it may not be true. It may be a little true that discussions between men tend to be more debate-like at times, but from what we observe in class, women definitely do not all talk at the same time. However with regards to talking, where men's talk are portrayed to be straight to the point and militarilistic while women's talk are portrayed to be confusing and going all over the place, we must admit that it seems quite true, as there tends to be more digressions in conversations between girls.
One gender difference that we observed but was not mentioned in the video can be that of speed. Boys tend to eat and walk faster while girls prefer to take things slow. This interesting observation pointed us in another direction: do people tend to conform to stereotypes? Society has structured differences between men and women in such a way that we are taught to conform with these stereotypes, hence making the trend more valids and confirming the stereotypes. Let's go back to eating, for example, where women are encouraged to maintain a gentle image and eat slowly, while men are encouraged to eat quickly in pursuit of effeciency. Anyone who fails to conform will be labelled as "tomboyish" or "sissy".
In conclusion, we feel that most of the traits shown in the video are rather valid, with only very few stereotypes. However, there may have been a lot more stereotypes in the past, only that we tend to conform to these stereotypes and turning the stereotypes into real-life observations.
Tu Guang, Jasmine, Wenyu, Amanda
09s06H
Monday, April 14, 2008
Have perceptions of sexuality, in all its different manifestations, changed since this book was published in 1997?
In the modern day context, perceptions of sexuality have become more liberal. We are more open minded when the topic is raised, partly due to our daily exposure to excessive sensitive images - Triumph undergarment, for instance. Magazines that are dedicated to sexuality issues such as FHM are available at any NTUC. Mature content websites are readily available in just a few clicks of the mouse away, not only to adults but also to underage teenagers. In other words, sexuality is accessible, available and abundant.
These characteristics of sexuality in the new age thus pose a problem. Being surrounded with this lucrative plethora, the youth may get a false impression of what sexuality is. Whether the perceptions on sexuality change or not, this false impression would certainly challenge the traditional values. Hence, there is a need to draw a line where sexuality is to be taken serious, meaning the notion of appropriateness is to be defined.
Generally, since the time of the article, 1997, our view on sexuality has become more open on account of media's development. At the same time, we imposed certain controls this evolve of perceptions, making it suitable to the new lifestyle, yet still follow the traditional values long upholded.
09So6J - Michelle, Qiwei, Trung, Brian Sim, Claire
These characteristics of sexuality in the new age thus pose a problem. Being surrounded with this lucrative plethora, the youth may get a false impression of what sexuality is. Whether the perceptions on sexuality change or not, this false impression would certainly challenge the traditional values. Hence, there is a need to draw a line where sexuality is to be taken serious, meaning the notion of appropriateness is to be defined.
Generally, since the time of the article, 1997, our view on sexuality has become more open on account of media's development. At the same time, we imposed certain controls this evolve of perceptions, making it suitable to the new lifestyle, yet still follow the traditional values long upholded.
09So6J - Michelle, Qiwei, Trung, Brian Sim, Claire
Our group thinks that the arguments presented in this text do not really apply to Singaporean society.
Given the definitions of ‘sex’ and ‘gender’ in the text, with the former being the physical differences of the body and latter being the psychological, social and cultural differences between males and females, there isn’t a clear distinction between these two terms in the context of Singapore. This is due the fact that the Singaporean government is not liberal enough to accept such differences. For example, on profiling forms, the word ‘sex’ was changed to ‘gender’ cause the government thinks that sex was a crude word. If our society isn’t even open enough to accept ‘sex’ as a normal word, it is pretty evident that it is not liberal to homosexuality as well. This brings us to the next point on homosexuality.
In the text, it is stated that certain countries in
Therefore, we can see that the arguments brought up in the passage do not apply to Singaporean society.
Lionel, Toan, Andrea, Chunhui, Serene 09S06JSunday, April 13, 2008
Sexism 1-3
In the first article, the area of discussion is science, a field traditionally associated with men. Hence people tend to conform to such believes and as such, women in science-related fields feel that they are discriminated against when they do not get the same job opportunities as men. An example brought up to support this point is that Harvard, a high-prestige institution, neglects lot of females. Also from the article, studies have shown that in evaluating a woman in a male-dominated field, both male and female observers see her as less competent than a similarly described man unless there is clear information that she is a top performer in the field. And in that case, they see her as less likeable than a comparable man. Summers claims that we all have “gender schemas” of what it means to be male or female.
The second article however, deals with women being sexually violated, a very sensitive issue. As a result, a woman’s word is stronger than the man’s as she is often seen as being more vulnerable, the person that suffers most as a result of sexual offenses. If the woman feigns distress during the trial, her trauma can be seen as evidence of a sexual offence having taken place, making it difficult for the male offender to fight his case. A swimming instructor who was accused of molesting a woman when he merely collided into her felt that the ‘legal system here (in Singapore) seems heavily weighted on the side of the women … the burden of proof is on the man’. This is due to the discrimination of the males in sexual offenses and complaints from the males are often not heeded.
For the third article, women’s complaints are often neglected as women are more often than not portrayed as overly sensitive creatures who complain about trivial things. Men on the other hand are perceived as being more hardy, and that they do not voice out their complains unless they have no choice. As such, this could be the reason why doctors take complaints from men and women differently. Males are seen to be dominant over the females as they receive greater priority and complaints from the females are usually ignored.
Bryan, Inez, Charlene and Isis
09S03K
The second article however, deals with women being sexually violated, a very sensitive issue. As a result, a woman’s word is stronger than the man’s as she is often seen as being more vulnerable, the person that suffers most as a result of sexual offenses. If the woman feigns distress during the trial, her trauma can be seen as evidence of a sexual offence having taken place, making it difficult for the male offender to fight his case. A swimming instructor who was accused of molesting a woman when he merely collided into her felt that the ‘legal system here (in Singapore) seems heavily weighted on the side of the women … the burden of proof is on the man’. This is due to the discrimination of the males in sexual offenses and complaints from the males are often not heeded.
For the third article, women’s complaints are often neglected as women are more often than not portrayed as overly sensitive creatures who complain about trivial things. Men on the other hand are perceived as being more hardy, and that they do not voice out their complains unless they have no choice. As such, this could be the reason why doctors take complaints from men and women differently. Males are seen to be dominant over the females as they receive greater priority and complaints from the females are usually ignored.
Bryan, Inez, Charlene and Isis
09S03K
Gender Roles – Male & Female
First scenario (coming home):
Girl: Upon reaching home, she has to do loads of housework like washing the clothes and hanging them out for drying, cooking, ironing, washing the plates and vacuuming the floor. This suggests that the girl is expected to complete the household chores and manage everything herself without any help.
Guy: Upon reaching home, however, the guy is seen to be watching the television, eating, drinking alcohol or sleeping. The guy is seen to be enjoying himself after he has reached home, probably because he is usually the sole breadwinner of the family and has come home after a long and tiring day.
Second scenario (talking):the guy seems to be talking about business, as in the serious stuff that is strictly relevant, as in the zhen4jing3 stuff.the girltalk can include many flowery and trivial details and topics seem to branch out extensively.
Third scenario (watching a romantic movie):
Girl: The girl is seen to be crying her heart out after watching a romantic movie, this shows that girls tend to be more emotional than guys and they are more likely to express their feelings by showing it.
Guys: The guy, however, is seen to be dozing off halfway through the movie. This suggests that guys are not very emotional and are not very interested in watching such types of movies.
Forth scenario (business trip):
Guy: The guy is seen to go to many different places on business trips, like London, Amsterdam, Moscow, Chicago, San Paolo, Tokyo and Madrid.
Girl: The girl is seen to be tied up when she leaves her house. This suggests that girls do not normally go on business trips.
Fifth scenario (on a diet):
Guy: The guy is seen to be able to go on a diet more effectively. the guy is more able to restrain himself as he has clear objective and sticks to it.
Girl: The girl, however, is seen as being near impossible if she wants to go on a diet. In the video, the girl resorts to taking the guy’s food after she has finished hers. This probably implies that the girl seems to give in to temptation easily.
Sixth scenario (date at 20.00):
Guy: The guy is seen to be punctual for appointments and dates, even when he is busy hours before the appointment.
Girl: The girl is seen to be late for her dates even though she started getting ready hours before the meeting time. She spends hours making up and dolling up herself, and finally reaches the meeting place one hour later.
Seventh scenario (traveling):
Guy: The guy is seen to be efficient and only carries a suitcase which is necessary with him when he travels.
Girl: The girl, on the other hand, is seen to be carrying a massive amount of items when she travels, even if some of them are totally unrelated and may not be used at all.
Eighth scenario (talking):
Guy: The guy is seen to be talking with another guy and they usually talk on only one specific topic.
Girl: The girl is seen to be always talking in a large group and about many different topics.
Ninth scenario (seducing):
the girl uses subtle ways to seduce the guy, which takes a long time.the guy does not even try to seduce. He just directly pounces on the girl.
Tenth scenario (to the toilet)
Girl: The girl is seen to always go to the toilet in groups. When one girl goes to the toilet, the rest follows after her.
Guy: The guy is seen to be going to the toilet alone.
Eleventh scenario (handbag):
Guy: The guy’s bag is seen to only contain essential items such as keys and his wallet.
Girl: The girl’s handbag is seen to contain many different items such as lipstick, sweets, comb, shades, soft toys, books, mirror, makeup kits and even an alarm.
Twelfth scenario (shopping):
Guy: While shopping, the guy is seen to leave after he has found what he wants in the shopping mall.
Girl: However, the girl is seen to be stopping at many different sections along the way while looking for the item that she wants as she is distracted. She eventually takes a long time to buy her item. After she leaves, she returned to have a last look at the goods.
Thirteenth scenario (the ideal partner):
Guy: The guy envisions his ideal partner as one who is able to do all the housework and look after children well.
Girl: However, the girls envision their ideal partner the same way too.
Conclusion:
There should be a right mix between the qualities of both the guy and the girl in order to achieve a good balance.
opinion: For those who feel that the film is not a parody, it is because it truly reflects what the society is like today. The females are now demanding a higher standard for the males and expect them to be versatile and all-rounded. Both males and females have been stereotyped and expected to behave in a certain way. It seems perfectly normal for the girl to get everything she wants and for the guy to comply with her. This is perhaps due to social changes which causes the males to become more inferior compared to the females.
For those who feel that...This film is a parody. Cos it takes only the various faults of the male/female and portrays it in a very funny way. the different actions of the male and female are very apparently stereotyped, (even though there IS a bit of truth in it) Besides, now that there is more emphasis on the equality of men and women, things change and there is not much difference between how the men and women behave.
from Fang ting, Kim, Min Jia, Jun Ling, Bryan Cai, 09S03K
First scenario (coming home):
Girl: Upon reaching home, she has to do loads of housework like washing the clothes and hanging them out for drying, cooking, ironing, washing the plates and vacuuming the floor. This suggests that the girl is expected to complete the household chores and manage everything herself without any help.
Guy: Upon reaching home, however, the guy is seen to be watching the television, eating, drinking alcohol or sleeping. The guy is seen to be enjoying himself after he has reached home, probably because he is usually the sole breadwinner of the family and has come home after a long and tiring day.
Second scenario (talking):the guy seems to be talking about business, as in the serious stuff that is strictly relevant, as in the zhen4jing3 stuff.the girltalk can include many flowery and trivial details and topics seem to branch out extensively.
Third scenario (watching a romantic movie):
Girl: The girl is seen to be crying her heart out after watching a romantic movie, this shows that girls tend to be more emotional than guys and they are more likely to express their feelings by showing it.
Guys: The guy, however, is seen to be dozing off halfway through the movie. This suggests that guys are not very emotional and are not very interested in watching such types of movies.
Forth scenario (business trip):
Guy: The guy is seen to go to many different places on business trips, like London, Amsterdam, Moscow, Chicago, San Paolo, Tokyo and Madrid.
Girl: The girl is seen to be tied up when she leaves her house. This suggests that girls do not normally go on business trips.
Fifth scenario (on a diet):
Guy: The guy is seen to be able to go on a diet more effectively. the guy is more able to restrain himself as he has clear objective and sticks to it.
Girl: The girl, however, is seen as being near impossible if she wants to go on a diet. In the video, the girl resorts to taking the guy’s food after she has finished hers. This probably implies that the girl seems to give in to temptation easily.
Sixth scenario (date at 20.00):
Guy: The guy is seen to be punctual for appointments and dates, even when he is busy hours before the appointment.
Girl: The girl is seen to be late for her dates even though she started getting ready hours before the meeting time. She spends hours making up and dolling up herself, and finally reaches the meeting place one hour later.
Seventh scenario (traveling):
Guy: The guy is seen to be efficient and only carries a suitcase which is necessary with him when he travels.
Girl: The girl, on the other hand, is seen to be carrying a massive amount of items when she travels, even if some of them are totally unrelated and may not be used at all.
Eighth scenario (talking):
Guy: The guy is seen to be talking with another guy and they usually talk on only one specific topic.
Girl: The girl is seen to be always talking in a large group and about many different topics.
Ninth scenario (seducing):
the girl uses subtle ways to seduce the guy, which takes a long time.the guy does not even try to seduce. He just directly pounces on the girl.
Tenth scenario (to the toilet)
Girl: The girl is seen to always go to the toilet in groups. When one girl goes to the toilet, the rest follows after her.
Guy: The guy is seen to be going to the toilet alone.
Eleventh scenario (handbag):
Guy: The guy’s bag is seen to only contain essential items such as keys and his wallet.
Girl: The girl’s handbag is seen to contain many different items such as lipstick, sweets, comb, shades, soft toys, books, mirror, makeup kits and even an alarm.
Twelfth scenario (shopping):
Guy: While shopping, the guy is seen to leave after he has found what he wants in the shopping mall.
Girl: However, the girl is seen to be stopping at many different sections along the way while looking for the item that she wants as she is distracted. She eventually takes a long time to buy her item. After she leaves, she returned to have a last look at the goods.
Thirteenth scenario (the ideal partner):
Guy: The guy envisions his ideal partner as one who is able to do all the housework and look after children well.
Girl: However, the girls envision their ideal partner the same way too.
Conclusion:
There should be a right mix between the qualities of both the guy and the girl in order to achieve a good balance.
opinion: For those who feel that the film is not a parody, it is because it truly reflects what the society is like today. The females are now demanding a higher standard for the males and expect them to be versatile and all-rounded. Both males and females have been stereotyped and expected to behave in a certain way. It seems perfectly normal for the girl to get everything she wants and for the guy to comply with her. This is perhaps due to social changes which causes the males to become more inferior compared to the females.
For those who feel that...This film is a parody. Cos it takes only the various faults of the male/female and portrays it in a very funny way. the different actions of the male and female are very apparently stereotyped, (even though there IS a bit of truth in it) Besides, now that there is more emphasis on the equality of men and women, things change and there is not much difference between how the men and women behave.
from Fang ting, Kim, Min Jia, Jun Ling, Bryan Cai, 09S03K
Gender Roles - Is the video a parody or a serious look at gender roles?
We feel that this video is a parody, and does not offer an objective perspective of gender roles in this time and age. The video projects a narrow perspective on the behaviour of men and women, and this is done through stereotypes of their character. It is largely based on the producer’s view of how men and women are likely to (or supposed to, in his perspective) behave. Numerous generalisations are made about how men and women will behave when they are put in a similar situation, and we feel that video makers are biased against women. Although no deliberate messages were put across regarding the different behaviours, the video seems to imply that women are more easily distracted and indecisive, as compared to men. It also seems that the women’s behaviour is more exaggerated in the video to achieve humour.
However, this video is also true to a certain extent as there would not be stereotypes if a certain behavior does not always happen. It is true that women still tend to do housework at home while men watch TV as it has always been from the past that the men go out to work while women stay home. Although some of these stereotypes may hold some truth, times are slowly changing and these views are becoming gross stereotypes of gender roles in the society. Women are becoming more independent and career minded while some men do stay at home to do housework. Although it is probably almost impossible to completely get rid of these stereotypes, gender roles are not so explicit nowadays as women are increasing doing what is supposed to be a man’s role while men are increasingly doing which is supposed to be a woman’s role and these is less and less gender discrimination.
In conclusion, this video was probably more relevant in the past but it is outdated in today’s context as we find ourselves disagreeing with many of the portrayals of the different genders, since men and women are slowly moving away from these stereotypes.
Cheong Li Min, Rachel Chin, Lim Shi Min, Sun Yi Yue, Tao Tao 09S03K
However, this video is also true to a certain extent as there would not be stereotypes if a certain behavior does not always happen. It is true that women still tend to do housework at home while men watch TV as it has always been from the past that the men go out to work while women stay home. Although some of these stereotypes may hold some truth, times are slowly changing and these views are becoming gross stereotypes of gender roles in the society. Women are becoming more independent and career minded while some men do stay at home to do housework. Although it is probably almost impossible to completely get rid of these stereotypes, gender roles are not so explicit nowadays as women are increasing doing what is supposed to be a man’s role while men are increasingly doing which is supposed to be a woman’s role and these is less and less gender discrimination.
In conclusion, this video was probably more relevant in the past but it is outdated in today’s context as we find ourselves disagreeing with many of the portrayals of the different genders, since men and women are slowly moving away from these stereotypes.
Cheong Li Min, Rachel Chin, Lim Shi Min, Sun Yi Yue, Tao Tao 09S03K
Views on the video: Gender Roles - Male and Female
We think the video is a parody, as it shows exaggeration of the behaviour of the sexes, which translates to the stereotype the video, is trying to put across. In the video, men were portrayed to be purposeful, work-oriented and have a strong sense of direction; while women are portrayed to be indecisive, family-oriented and chatty.
However, things are not like that in today’s society. There are an increasing number of women who would choose to go out to work, deserting the traditional role of a housewife, caring for the children and working around the house. Women in these days would much prefer to be recognized in terms of their aptitude, and try to shrug off the stereotype that has been placed on them for the longest of time. Furthermore, there is also increasing incidence of men doing housework; the image of only the women staying home while men go out to work has been blurred.
One interesting observation that one of our group members made was the shapes of the characters used. A square, which is angular and has straight edges, was used to portray a male character. A circle which is rounded and has smooth edges was used to portray a female character. Both descriptions have implications of the stereotypical behaviours of men and women; that men are more decisive (e.g. the shopping incident), while women, who are deemed as more ‘roundabout’, simply just can’t make up their minds.
At the same time, the video portrays positive characteristics of men and women. The business trip example had the indication that women are very family-oriented, as they could not leave their homes to go on a business trip. Another example, which is the example of going on a date, shows that men have a good sense of time and are punctual.
On the whole, a large part of the video is exaggerated but still it portrays some of the mindsets that people today still have. The video is probably more suitable for entertainment purposes than for educational purposes.
Done by: Emily, Mansi, Ying Hin, Yihui and Evelyn 09So3K
However, things are not like that in today’s society. There are an increasing number of women who would choose to go out to work, deserting the traditional role of a housewife, caring for the children and working around the house. Women in these days would much prefer to be recognized in terms of their aptitude, and try to shrug off the stereotype that has been placed on them for the longest of time. Furthermore, there is also increasing incidence of men doing housework; the image of only the women staying home while men go out to work has been blurred.
One interesting observation that one of our group members made was the shapes of the characters used. A square, which is angular and has straight edges, was used to portray a male character. A circle which is rounded and has smooth edges was used to portray a female character. Both descriptions have implications of the stereotypical behaviours of men and women; that men are more decisive (e.g. the shopping incident), while women, who are deemed as more ‘roundabout’, simply just can’t make up their minds.
At the same time, the video portrays positive characteristics of men and women. The business trip example had the indication that women are very family-oriented, as they could not leave their homes to go on a business trip. Another example, which is the example of going on a date, shows that men have a good sense of time and are punctual.
On the whole, a large part of the video is exaggerated but still it portrays some of the mindsets that people today still have. The video is probably more suitable for entertainment purposes than for educational purposes.
Done by: Emily, Mansi, Ying Hin, Yihui and Evelyn 09So3K
Whose views on sex and gender do you agree with more - those of Jan Morris or those of Leonard Sax?
Our group is in more agreement with Jan Morris' argument that gender is socially constructed, rather than it being attributed to innate factors. Jan Morris also defines sex as physical aspects of the body that are biological in origin, and gender as the psychological, social and cultural differences between males and females.
Even though some believe that the behavioural differences between men and women are a result of biological differences, we feel that the differences in the behaviour of men and women is more greatly attributed towards the development of one's identity through social learning. It is not wrong to say that innate differences of behaviour appear in some form in all cultures. However, these behavioural patterns linked to cultures imply that some sort of status quo had been set by ancestors, hence they are not completely biologically-linked, but rather are linked to cultural values.
Jan Morris brings up the fact that gender socialization begins right from the moment when an infant in born. Through a study whereby 5 mothers interacted with a six-month-old, their responses towards the infant varied with its name - "Beth" was thought to be sweet and have a soft cry, while "Adam" was offered male toys. As such, it can be concluded that our gender has been greatly influenced by our parents from birth.
Also, from Jan Morris' first-hand account after she had undergone a sex change, she realized that society treated her differently, and that she began to adopt a more feminine attitude subconsciously. Although Leonard Sax argues that biological differences does affect the way one behaves, this is hardly applicable in modern day as there are means for one to undergo a sex-change. Moreover, while innate factors do play a part in defining our gender, societal influence over our gender has been so great and subtle that we hardly even notice it. Due to the pressures from society which forms stereotypes of males and females, we tend to behave in such a way that is deemed proper for a male or female.
- Bao Rong, Bryan A., Melissa, Rui Si (09S06J)
Even though some believe that the behavioural differences between men and women are a result of biological differences, we feel that the differences in the behaviour of men and women is more greatly attributed towards the development of one's identity through social learning. It is not wrong to say that innate differences of behaviour appear in some form in all cultures. However, these behavioural patterns linked to cultures imply that some sort of status quo had been set by ancestors, hence they are not completely biologically-linked, but rather are linked to cultural values.
Jan Morris brings up the fact that gender socialization begins right from the moment when an infant in born. Through a study whereby 5 mothers interacted with a six-month-old, their responses towards the infant varied with its name - "Beth" was thought to be sweet and have a soft cry, while "Adam" was offered male toys. As such, it can be concluded that our gender has been greatly influenced by our parents from birth.
Also, from Jan Morris' first-hand account after she had undergone a sex change, she realized that society treated her differently, and that she began to adopt a more feminine attitude subconsciously. Although Leonard Sax argues that biological differences does affect the way one behaves, this is hardly applicable in modern day as there are means for one to undergo a sex-change. Moreover, while innate factors do play a part in defining our gender, societal influence over our gender has been so great and subtle that we hardly even notice it. Due to the pressures from society which forms stereotypes of males and females, we tend to behave in such a way that is deemed proper for a male or female.
- Bao Rong, Bryan A., Melissa, Rui Si (09S06J)
To what extent do you agree that gender is a social activity and not an innate quality, something we "do" rather than something we "are"?
Our group acknowledges that social activities do have an influence on gender. A male growing up in a feminine culture will tend to exhibit certain feminine traits which is the same for females. The question lies in whether the opposite sexes truly understand the needs of the other half. While a person may show characteristics of the opposite sex, is he or she really able to appreciate the traits of someone from a different gender? The story of Jan Morris is fallacious because he is not born a female. When he questions the treatment of women in the society, he is actually questioning his own gender. He does not understand what ‘femininity’ means to him because he does not have the innate quality to engage the society as a ‘woman’.
Having said that, ‘sex’ and ‘gender’ are two fundamental aspects of human beings which cannot be separated from each other. Gender is determined by sex simply because gender is influenced by the physical and biological makeup of a person. A person born of a particular sex will exhibit certain behaviors which are unique to that particular gender. For example, females tend to be more emotional as compared to males. All females will undergo psychological turmoil during the period of menopause, which is a biological process beyond the control of culture differences. Similarly, ‘straight’ males will naturally be attracted to females during puberty, a period whereby testosterones are produced. Scientific researches have shown that males and females do have different emotional needs, no matter which kind of society they grow up in.
Weiliang, Jiwei, Chen Xuan, Yong Sheng
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Sex & Gender: Discussion Question
2. Whose views on sex & gender do you agree with more – those of Jan Morris or those of Leonard Sax?
While both the arguments of Jan Morris and Leonard Sax do have their commendable points, our group tends towards the views presented of Jan Morris, that gender as a concept is constructed by the social environment in which he or she is brought up in, as compared to the biological roots of the individual.
Firstly, Jan Morris believes that gender is instilled in us from the very beginning since we were born, as parents (who perceive themselves to have treated children equally regardless of gender) do actually behave and treat boys differently from girls. In a classic experiment, mothers were observed in interaction with a female child, and they treated her noticeably differently than when interacting with a male child. The female child was given dolls, and “girly” toys to play with, whereas the male child was given trains and other “male” toys. As such, even when parents try their best to avoid gender-typing, and bringing up their children as equally and fairly as possible, it is almost impossible to disregard the gender differences between males and females. This is absolutely true, as we know from personal experience of our upbringing that even as children, parents would expect boys not to cry, and for them to be more tough and “gung-ho” as compared to girls, who are more allowed to do stuff that expresses weakness, like crying and whining.
Also, Leonard Sax argues that the biological make up of the individual is what determines his or her gender, and that society has gravely overestimated the role in which social and cognitive factors play in this area. Also, he attempts to support his argument by giving the example of comparison of breast size between men and women, and hence concludes that gender variations among members of one sex need not necessarily mean that gender is a social construct. However, Leonard Sax does not offer enough in showing why innate factors have a greater role to play as compared to social factors. For example, he could have brought up the idea that young men and women who are brought up in a society which places stereotypical gender roles on its community can still continue to grow up to be gay men and women, and from there broaden his perspectives. Rather, all he does in his argument is show that such social and environmental factors have a smaller role than people give them credit for, but this does not necessarily mean that gender is not socially constructed.
Furthermore, Jan Morris states that the more she was treated as a woman, the more woman she become, and she adapted as accordingly. Indeed, the idea that boys and girls grow up to be men and women respectively do so because of the way society pressurizes them to conform to its standards as well as its stereotypes is an appealing one. Furthermore, by bringing up the example of Beth and Adam, who are really the same child, but are treated differently as they are believed to be of different genders, Jan Morris also brings up the idea of gender socialization and how it is impossible to avoid.
As such, we definitely agree more with Jan Morris’ views on sex and gender. They are definitely more persuasive and supported by concrete evidence, unlike Leonard Sax’s arguments which are more opinion-based and without the backing up of facts. Furthermore, Leonard Sax only states one counterexample about body parts to the argument that gender is socially constructed. This only applies to one special case of one body part, and is not a very substantial argument. Therefore, we firmly believe that Jan Morris’ viewpoints are more reliable and we definitely agree with them more than Leonard Sax’s.
Done by: Ng Shi Yang, Joel Tan, Xu Yande, Chen Yadi & Chelsia Goh (09S06J)
While both the arguments of Jan Morris and Leonard Sax do have their commendable points, our group tends towards the views presented of Jan Morris, that gender as a concept is constructed by the social environment in which he or she is brought up in, as compared to the biological roots of the individual.
Firstly, Jan Morris believes that gender is instilled in us from the very beginning since we were born, as parents (who perceive themselves to have treated children equally regardless of gender) do actually behave and treat boys differently from girls. In a classic experiment, mothers were observed in interaction with a female child, and they treated her noticeably differently than when interacting with a male child. The female child was given dolls, and “girly” toys to play with, whereas the male child was given trains and other “male” toys. As such, even when parents try their best to avoid gender-typing, and bringing up their children as equally and fairly as possible, it is almost impossible to disregard the gender differences between males and females. This is absolutely true, as we know from personal experience of our upbringing that even as children, parents would expect boys not to cry, and for them to be more tough and “gung-ho” as compared to girls, who are more allowed to do stuff that expresses weakness, like crying and whining.
Also, Leonard Sax argues that the biological make up of the individual is what determines his or her gender, and that society has gravely overestimated the role in which social and cognitive factors play in this area. Also, he attempts to support his argument by giving the example of comparison of breast size between men and women, and hence concludes that gender variations among members of one sex need not necessarily mean that gender is a social construct. However, Leonard Sax does not offer enough in showing why innate factors have a greater role to play as compared to social factors. For example, he could have brought up the idea that young men and women who are brought up in a society which places stereotypical gender roles on its community can still continue to grow up to be gay men and women, and from there broaden his perspectives. Rather, all he does in his argument is show that such social and environmental factors have a smaller role than people give them credit for, but this does not necessarily mean that gender is not socially constructed.
Furthermore, Jan Morris states that the more she was treated as a woman, the more woman she become, and she adapted as accordingly. Indeed, the idea that boys and girls grow up to be men and women respectively do so because of the way society pressurizes them to conform to its standards as well as its stereotypes is an appealing one. Furthermore, by bringing up the example of Beth and Adam, who are really the same child, but are treated differently as they are believed to be of different genders, Jan Morris also brings up the idea of gender socialization and how it is impossible to avoid.
As such, we definitely agree more with Jan Morris’ views on sex and gender. They are definitely more persuasive and supported by concrete evidence, unlike Leonard Sax’s arguments which are more opinion-based and without the backing up of facts. Furthermore, Leonard Sax only states one counterexample about body parts to the argument that gender is socially constructed. This only applies to one special case of one body part, and is not a very substantial argument. Therefore, we firmly believe that Jan Morris’ viewpoints are more reliable and we definitely agree with them more than Leonard Sax’s.
Done by: Ng Shi Yang, Joel Tan, Xu Yande, Chen Yadi & Chelsia Goh (09S06J)
Sax's Sex
In “Why Gender Matters”, written by Leonard Sax, the aforementioned author firstly defines the widely understood meanings of the two words “sex” and “gender.” Sex in this case is defined as purely biological, with only two possibilities: male or female. Referring to the same source, he continues to define gender, the other word in this mixed confusion and confused mix, as a sense of identity that is created socially. He defines gender as a description of one’s degree of masculinity or femininity.
Before beginning to critique such (in his opinion) loose definitions, he first concedes how they may have arrived at such an interpretation of these words. Sax accepts the truth of the matter regarding femininity and masculinity, and finds that seeing gender as something built up along one’s life span is understandable. After allowing his opposing point some space, he then voices out his complaints with specific examples, such as certain gender-specific physical traits being genetically defined from birth rather than created. He qualifies the vagueness of his points by giving another vague statement that both the National Academies’ deduced factor and other natural factors are present, but are simply unfairly viewed.
Sax follows up one issue he has with another, this time widening his sights to include both defined words. He cites a purely linguistic example in this case, and shows that these two words are indeed not interchangeable and can have different effects on the way in which certain sentences are received.
In short, he provides counterexamples to disprove certain things about the widely acknowledged definitions that he finds unsatisfactory, after showing that he is not actually a berserked bull blinded with rage and is indeed able to see beyond his personal opinions, making these opinions all the more valid and justifiable.
Before beginning to critique such (in his opinion) loose definitions, he first concedes how they may have arrived at such an interpretation of these words. Sax accepts the truth of the matter regarding femininity and masculinity, and finds that seeing gender as something built up along one’s life span is understandable. After allowing his opposing point some space, he then voices out his complaints with specific examples, such as certain gender-specific physical traits being genetically defined from birth rather than created. He qualifies the vagueness of his points by giving another vague statement that both the National Academies’ deduced factor and other natural factors are present, but are simply unfairly viewed.
Sax follows up one issue he has with another, this time widening his sights to include both defined words. He cites a purely linguistic example in this case, and shows that these two words are indeed not interchangeable and can have different effects on the way in which certain sentences are received.
In short, he provides counterexamples to disprove certain things about the widely acknowledged definitions that he finds unsatisfactory, after showing that he is not actually a berserked bull blinded with rage and is indeed able to see beyond his personal opinions, making these opinions all the more valid and justifiable.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
We agree to a great extent that gender is a social activity and not an innate quality.
For example, females are not allowed to undergo caning as a punishment for breaking the law whereas males can be caned up to a maximum of 24 strokes. Also, it is mandatory for males only to serve in the army for at least two years.
These laws give people the impression that females are physically weaker than males, hence they cannot be subjected to the same treatment. Thus, children grow up thinking in accordance to these laws of differential social treatment and learn fufill the social behaviours as they become adults.
Another pre-concieved idea os the sexes is that males are more well off than females,which is why females are able to ask for alimony from their ex-spouse in the case of a divorce.
In a way, the Singapore laws has already created an image of what females and males should be like and hence the people would naturally react to it and fit their behaviour into it. Thus, we believe that the argument in the passage about society’s influence on gender holds true in the Singaporean context as well.
Evelyn, YingHin, Yihui, Emily, Mansi 09S03K
Whose views on sex & gender do you agree with more -those of Jan Morris or those of Leonard Sax?
We agree to a large extent with Jan Morris’ views on sex and gender. Gender is socially constructed as it refers to the psychological social and cultural differences between males and females. Psychological social and cultural differences can influence one’s behaviour whether he/she tends to the opposite gender or not. Jan Morris was a very “manly” man yet she always felt herself to a woman in a male body thus she underwent a sex-change operation and since then lived as a woman. Even though Jan Morris was born a male, she was affected by many factors such as religion, cultural and the society in general that changed her mindset and thoughts resulting in her going for sex-change operation. Sex-change operation is uncommon yet it’s still happening to males and females who want to become the opposite sex. This minority is largely influenced by society that caused them to feel themselves as a woman/man inside. This is supported by the example stated by Jan Morris on the difference in treatment by the waiter when she was a male and when she became a female.
Leonard Sax’s opinions on the hand are subjective and not representative of the society in general. The example he raised about how “some overweight men have large breasts” is not representative of all overweight man but rather just a minority group of men. We cannot determine whether gender is a socially constructed or not just because of physical appearances and body features.
Fang Ting, Bryan cai, Min Jia, Junling, Kim
09S03K
Leonard Sax’s opinions on the hand are subjective and not representative of the society in general. The example he raised about how “some overweight men have large breasts” is not representative of all overweight man but rather just a minority group of men. We cannot determine whether gender is a socially constructed or not just because of physical appearances and body features.
Fang Ting, Bryan cai, Min Jia, Junling, Kim
09S03K
Whose views on sex and gender do you agree with more - those of Jan Morris or those of Leonard Sax?
We agree more with the views of Leonard Sax. Jan Morris believes that the words "sex" and "gender" have inherently different meanings, while Leonard Sax argues that the two words are interchangeable, depending on the context in which they are used.
A drastic shift in people's attitudes toward Morris after her sex change led her to make changes in her lifestyle so as to meet their expectations and fit the stereotype of a woman, as she found that it was the socially appropriate thing to do. This led her to conclude that gender is socially constructed. However, social and cultural expectations of men and women are biologically based; men and women behave in a way that is natural and instinctive to their own sex and sexual tendencies, and in most democratic societies, they would rarely be forced to live a life that they would feel uncomfortable living. With the loosening of social standards brought about by an increasingly open modern society, the lines between gender and sex are considerably blurred. For example, in Singapore, homosexuals are not forced to exhibit heterosexual traits and are free to establish their identities as gays.
Sax's point that social and cognitive factors on gender traits have been systematically overestimated while innate factors have been neglected is a strong one. Inevitably, biological differences would mean that the average woman is more feminine than the average man and vice versa. This is probably the root cause of gender stereotypes throughout the course of history. These traditional stereotypes are what put social pressure on Morris to conform to them.
However, as a transsexual, hers is an unusual perspective and therefore a perspective that is misrepresentative of the general population. Assuming that majority of the people who treated her differently were aware of her sex change, perhaps they would expect someone who has undertook such a drastic measure to be female to want to be a woman so badly that they would, unfairly, expect her to be more feminine than masculine. This would mean that the social pressure she faced could have merely been the result of value judgments and misunderstandings.
Also, how would one explain the existence of homosexuals in societies whereby heterosexuality is the norm and homosexuality is generally frowned upon? If social influence shapes gender identity, it would mean that these people would end up as heterosexuals. Therefore, there is probably a biological force driving homosexuals and their sexual identities, as is the case for heterosexuals; they are merely biologically inclined to being straight.
In conclusion, although it is valid to say that social and environmental influences do have an impact on the tendencies of an individual, these influences are largely shaped by the biological tendencies of human beings and these influences are often less impactful than the individual's genetic make up.
marvin, genevieve, nicole, xiaodi, charmaine 09s03k
A drastic shift in people's attitudes toward Morris after her sex change led her to make changes in her lifestyle so as to meet their expectations and fit the stereotype of a woman, as she found that it was the socially appropriate thing to do. This led her to conclude that gender is socially constructed. However, social and cultural expectations of men and women are biologically based; men and women behave in a way that is natural and instinctive to their own sex and sexual tendencies, and in most democratic societies, they would rarely be forced to live a life that they would feel uncomfortable living. With the loosening of social standards brought about by an increasingly open modern society, the lines between gender and sex are considerably blurred. For example, in Singapore, homosexuals are not forced to exhibit heterosexual traits and are free to establish their identities as gays.
Sax's point that social and cognitive factors on gender traits have been systematically overestimated while innate factors have been neglected is a strong one. Inevitably, biological differences would mean that the average woman is more feminine than the average man and vice versa. This is probably the root cause of gender stereotypes throughout the course of history. These traditional stereotypes are what put social pressure on Morris to conform to them.
However, as a transsexual, hers is an unusual perspective and therefore a perspective that is misrepresentative of the general population. Assuming that majority of the people who treated her differently were aware of her sex change, perhaps they would expect someone who has undertook such a drastic measure to be female to want to be a woman so badly that they would, unfairly, expect her to be more feminine than masculine. This would mean that the social pressure she faced could have merely been the result of value judgments and misunderstandings.
Also, how would one explain the existence of homosexuals in societies whereby heterosexuality is the norm and homosexuality is generally frowned upon? If social influence shapes gender identity, it would mean that these people would end up as heterosexuals. Therefore, there is probably a biological force driving homosexuals and their sexual identities, as is the case for heterosexuals; they are merely biologically inclined to being straight.
In conclusion, although it is valid to say that social and environmental influences do have an impact on the tendencies of an individual, these influences are largely shaped by the biological tendencies of human beings and these influences are often less impactful than the individual's genetic make up.
marvin, genevieve, nicole, xiaodi, charmaine 09s03k
Reflections on "Gender & Sexuality" and "A Semantic Note on "Sex" and "Gender""
After reading the 2 articles, our group agrees more with Jan Morris's views on sex and gender than those of Leonard Sax. Firstly, Jan raised a good point about how it is almost impossible to prevent gender socialization, using the "Beth and Adam" example. This presents us with a problem: we cannot know whether gender is truly a social construct (hence requiring it to be seperate from "sex") or an inborn trait (making it closer to "sex" and hence rendering the differentiation pointless) if society's influences cannot be removed. This makes it possible for one to argue both sides of the story - whether "sex" and "gender" can be used interchangeably.
So why do we side with Jan? Leonard Sax's arguments may seem logical at first glance, but upon reflection, we feel that his arguments are vague and unconvincing. He uses a counterexample (variation in sizes of breasts for both male and female) to make a point that when something has large variations it does not necessarily have to be socially constructed. This is a valid point. However, in our opinion, it does not support the argument. Yes, a trait with large variation may not be socially contructed, but that does not mean that it is definitely not socially constructed. In providing the example, Leonard Sax merely shows that there are 2 sides to the story, but does not prove that his side is true. Another point is that when Leonard talks about confusion and ambiguity, shouldn't the correct and less ambiguous choice both be "gender", since he is talking about feminity, which is defined as a social construct? (Leonard assumes that the correct word to use here to be "sex", hence his point about confusion and ambiguity should the "correct" term be used)
In conclusion, we feel that while it remains debatable as to the usage of "sex" and "gender", it would be better to leave them as it is ("sex" refering to the biological factor and "gender" refering to the social constructs of masculinity and feminity), since it is a choice between being a little clearer in most situations and seeming (but may not necessarily be) a little less ambiguous in the odd cases.
Tu Guang, Wenyu, Jasmine, Amanda
09s06H
So why do we side with Jan? Leonard Sax's arguments may seem logical at first glance, but upon reflection, we feel that his arguments are vague and unconvincing. He uses a counterexample (variation in sizes of breasts for both male and female) to make a point that when something has large variations it does not necessarily have to be socially constructed. This is a valid point. However, in our opinion, it does not support the argument. Yes, a trait with large variation may not be socially contructed, but that does not mean that it is definitely not socially constructed. In providing the example, Leonard Sax merely shows that there are 2 sides to the story, but does not prove that his side is true. Another point is that when Leonard talks about confusion and ambiguity, shouldn't the correct and less ambiguous choice both be "gender", since he is talking about feminity, which is defined as a social construct? (Leonard assumes that the correct word to use here to be "sex", hence his point about confusion and ambiguity should the "correct" term be used)
In conclusion, we feel that while it remains debatable as to the usage of "sex" and "gender", it would be better to leave them as it is ("sex" refering to the biological factor and "gender" refering to the social constructs of masculinity and feminity), since it is a choice between being a little clearer in most situations and seeming (but may not necessarily be) a little less ambiguous in the odd cases.
Tu Guang, Wenyu, Jasmine, Amanda
09s06H
To what extent do you agree that gender is a social activity and not an innate quality, something we “do” rather than something we “are”? Explain.
We agree that gender is indeed something we “do” rather than something we “are”. From the article, gender refers to the psychological, social and cultural differences between males and females. The extent of femininity and masculinity in a person is largely dependent on the environment and culture he or she has been living in. These factors are largely responsible in influencing a person’s femininity and masculinity. For instance, if a girl grows up in a family full of boys, she will indubitably be affected and influenced by boys in her family. Hence, the girl might tend to show more masculine than feminine characteristics, like an interest in cars. Though expectations such as the aggression of males and gentleness of females may differ between cultures, the fact that there is a typical, stereotyped behaviour of men and women (as defined by their sex, i.e. physical differences) is evident in cultures all around the world. For example, when Jan Morris was a man, he was treated with ‘respectful seriousness’. However, after his sex change, Jan Morris was treated with ‘grave concern’. From James Morris’, a ‘manly’ woman who went for a sex change, experiences, people treat one another differently, simply based on the sex of the person.
Gender identity forms from the day a person is born; it is already in him or her. Parents treat their children differently depending on their sex. From the article, boys are given war toys and girls are given dolls. Girls, unlike boys, were treated much more affectionately as parents smiled to them more often. By conforming to this stereotype, this anchors the roots of one's gender identity. In many societies, the males are the sole breadwinner of a family while the females take on the role as housewives. This Chinese custom is practised for centuries throughout generations, emphasising that the males are more able than the females. So far, all the Singapore ministers are males, proving once again that males are more capable than females. Hence, the gender identity is created by the actions of mankind. Fortunately, such differences are beginning to vanish from the society as the new generation are increasingly influenced by the western cultures which promotes equality between the opposite sexes.
Inez, Bryan, Charlene and Isis
09S03K
Gender identity forms from the day a person is born; it is already in him or her. Parents treat their children differently depending on their sex. From the article, boys are given war toys and girls are given dolls. Girls, unlike boys, were treated much more affectionately as parents smiled to them more often. By conforming to this stereotype, this anchors the roots of one's gender identity. In many societies, the males are the sole breadwinner of a family while the females take on the role as housewives. This Chinese custom is practised for centuries throughout generations, emphasising that the males are more able than the females. So far, all the Singapore ministers are males, proving once again that males are more capable than females. Hence, the gender identity is created by the actions of mankind. Fortunately, such differences are beginning to vanish from the society as the new generation are increasingly influenced by the western cultures which promotes equality between the opposite sexes.
Inez, Bryan, Charlene and Isis
09S03K
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Reflections on Paint Chart Test
Our group feels that the paintchart test is not very useful and not applicable especially to a co-ed environment. This could be due to the fact that females and males might not be willing to express themselves freely in front of others. In addition, as the test was conducted in an informal setting, it cannot said to be successful since the class was not particularly serious about attempting the test and wrote their responses in such a way that would make people laugh.
However, that is not to say the test is entirely inaccurate. Some questions/assumptions made during the test actually proved to be correct. An example of such questions/assumptions would be that guys compare the colour with objects (e.g. Mr faizad's pants, a typical ah beng's shirt colour) while girls generally describe the appearance of the colour. Still, it must be noted that most of the questions/assumptions made were proven to be wrong after an analysis of the answers on the white board, which reiterates the point that the paintchart test is not really useful on the whole.
Done by:
Yiksin, Edith, Christian, Yu Wen
09S07A (:
However, that is not to say the test is entirely inaccurate. Some questions/assumptions made during the test actually proved to be correct. An example of such questions/assumptions would be that guys compare the colour with objects (e.g. Mr faizad's pants, a typical ah beng's shirt colour) while girls generally describe the appearance of the colour. Still, it must be noted that most of the questions/assumptions made were proven to be wrong after an analysis of the answers on the white board, which reiterates the point that the paintchart test is not really useful on the whole.
Done by:
Yiksin, Edith, Christian, Yu Wen
09S07A (:
Whose views on sex & gender do you agree with more -- those of Jan Morris or those of Leonard Sax?
We agree largely with Jan Morris’ views on sex and gender.
Sex refers to physical differences of the body while gender is a psychological difference between male and female. We agree that many differences between male and female are not biological in origin. How females behave, or feminity, is largely determined by traditions and culture, which forms a stereotype of how females should be like. In the example Jan Morris gave, Morris said that “the more I was treated as a woman, the more woman I became”.
Cultural and society influence is certainly very evident in the shaping of one’s gender. Society has a notion of how females should behave; for example, females are thought to be domestic and gentle, so since infants, females are given dolls and cooking sets, while boys are given war toys because they are expected to be more aggressive and rough. Because of the way society treats us by our gender, gender is largely shaped by society and culture instead of our biological composition.
Still, we cannot neglect the fact that our biological composition and physical differences of the body do determine the differences between males and females as well. For example, hormonal changes do determine one’s physical appearance and general behaviour.
However, gender holds a greater importance than sex in today’s society and the social gap between the sexes is narrowing. People are treated as females or males due to gender, more than sex as butches are treated as “man” and sex change operations can change one’s sex.
Thus we believe that cultural and societal influences outweigh the biological factor, given the fact that much of our behavior and character are affected by the society and the environment.
Cheong Li Min, Rachel Chin, Lim Shi Min, Sun Yi Yue, Tao Tao 09S03K
Sex refers to physical differences of the body while gender is a psychological difference between male and female. We agree that many differences between male and female are not biological in origin. How females behave, or feminity, is largely determined by traditions and culture, which forms a stereotype of how females should be like. In the example Jan Morris gave, Morris said that “the more I was treated as a woman, the more woman I became”.
Cultural and society influence is certainly very evident in the shaping of one’s gender. Society has a notion of how females should behave; for example, females are thought to be domestic and gentle, so since infants, females are given dolls and cooking sets, while boys are given war toys because they are expected to be more aggressive and rough. Because of the way society treats us by our gender, gender is largely shaped by society and culture instead of our biological composition.
Still, we cannot neglect the fact that our biological composition and physical differences of the body do determine the differences between males and females as well. For example, hormonal changes do determine one’s physical appearance and general behaviour.
However, gender holds a greater importance than sex in today’s society and the social gap between the sexes is narrowing. People are treated as females or males due to gender, more than sex as butches are treated as “man” and sex change operations can change one’s sex.
Thus we believe that cultural and societal influences outweigh the biological factor, given the fact that much of our behavior and character are affected by the society and the environment.
Cheong Li Min, Rachel Chin, Lim Shi Min, Sun Yi Yue, Tao Tao 09S03K
The Paint-Chart Test
Was the paint-chart test useful or not useful? Why?
In general, the paint-chart test did show that males and females do indeed use a different lexicon in the description of colours. At the same time however, there were also similarities or a lack of differences in certain aspects of the descriptions by both parties.
Firstly, there were more females that simply attributed another colour to the colour they were supposed to describe, eg. "magenta", rosy-hued", etc. On the other hand, more males tended to use actual objects in their descriptions of colours - for instance, 'blood' for red, 'tarzan's underwear' for olive green, 'Nic Yun' for pink, etc. on the male side as compared to the solitary 'the same colour as my hairband' on the female side.
Such differences indicated that the females were more conservative and did not dare to utilize other things and entities (other than other colours) to describe the colours. Males, on the contrary, leveraged on tangible objects in their descriptions. At the same time, most of their responses had rather outrageous content, indicating their impulsiveness but also their creativity and ability to think beyond the box.
A similarity in the responses of both parties was that there was a noticeable lack of personal pronouns in the description except for the solitary 'the same colour as my hairband' response on the female side. In addition, both sides tend to give rather brief responses of one word or just a short phrase.
Such similarities show that the test was rather impersonal and participants were unwilling to divulge fully their real feelings - hence the lack of personal pronouns and brief responses. In my opinion, I feel that this is because the responses were publicly displayed, and thus, most people had a tendency to hold back a little when responding to the stimulus given, i.e. colour.
However, in light of such a situation, with the males still having more outrageous and attention-grabbing responses as compared to the females' conservative responses, we can still detect some subtle gender differences - that males tended to be more impulsive while females more subdued.
In short, the test is not useful in that it does not allow anonymity in the responses which would affect results. Yet, it still unearths some gender differences between male and females. As such, it is still useful to a relatively large extent.
Eugene, Nic Yun, Vionna, Sabrina, Ivan
In general, the paint-chart test did show that males and females do indeed use a different lexicon in the description of colours. At the same time however, there were also similarities or a lack of differences in certain aspects of the descriptions by both parties.
Firstly, there were more females that simply attributed another colour to the colour they were supposed to describe, eg. "magenta", rosy-hued", etc. On the other hand, more males tended to use actual objects in their descriptions of colours - for instance, 'blood' for red, 'tarzan's underwear' for olive green, 'Nic Yun' for pink, etc. on the male side as compared to the solitary 'the same colour as my hairband' on the female side.
Such differences indicated that the females were more conservative and did not dare to utilize other things and entities (other than other colours) to describe the colours. Males, on the contrary, leveraged on tangible objects in their descriptions. At the same time, most of their responses had rather outrageous content, indicating their impulsiveness but also their creativity and ability to think beyond the box.
A similarity in the responses of both parties was that there was a noticeable lack of personal pronouns in the description except for the solitary 'the same colour as my hairband' response on the female side. In addition, both sides tend to give rather brief responses of one word or just a short phrase.
Such similarities show that the test was rather impersonal and participants were unwilling to divulge fully their real feelings - hence the lack of personal pronouns and brief responses. In my opinion, I feel that this is because the responses were publicly displayed, and thus, most people had a tendency to hold back a little when responding to the stimulus given, i.e. colour.
However, in light of such a situation, with the males still having more outrageous and attention-grabbing responses as compared to the females' conservative responses, we can still detect some subtle gender differences - that males tended to be more impulsive while females more subdued.
In short, the test is not useful in that it does not allow anonymity in the responses which would affect results. Yet, it still unearths some gender differences between male and females. As such, it is still useful to a relatively large extent.
Eugene, Nic Yun, Vionna, Sabrina, Ivan
Paint chart test
Was it useful?
Yes to a certain extent it does show the hypothesis of the fact that men and women do possess use a different lexicon when it comes to describing colours.
Although it does not exactly prove the entire hypothesis, when done with a larger sample size without the class based setting (which affects the types of responses, especially from the class jokers who don’t give a proper answer), it might possibly turn out to be true.
It is useful in showing us that it matters whether the responses are given in a quiet and alone sort of setting It does show that people do comply with the assumption that there are differences between men and women although to a large degree response, differs largely depending on the individual as well. However, it is not useful in completely proving the hypothesis, but useful in showing that everyone is different.
In conclusion, everyone is unique in his/her own way. You can classify, but at the end people are still individuals. =)
zhefei, justin, abi kang, momo
Paint chart test
Was it useful?
Yes to a certain extent it does show the hypothesis of the fact that men and women do possess use a different lexicon when it comes to describing colours.
Although it does not exactly prove the entire hypothesis, when done with a larger sample size without the class based setting (which affects the types of responses, especially from the class jokers who don’t give a proper answer), it might possibly turn out to be true.
It is useful in showing us that it matters whether the responses are given in a quiet and alone sort of setting It does show that people do comply with the assumption that there are differences between men and women although to a large degree response, differs largely depending on the individual as well. However, it is not useful in completely proving the hypothesis, but useful in showing that everyone is different.
In conclusion, everyone is unique in his/her own way. You can classify, but at the end people are still individuals. =)
Yes to a certain extent it does show the hypothesis of the fact that men and women do possess use a different lexicon when it comes to describing colours.
Although it does not exactly prove the entire hypothesis, when done with a larger sample size without the class based setting (which affects the types of responses, especially from the class jokers who don’t give a proper answer), it might possibly turn out to be true.
It is useful in showing us that it matters whether the responses are given in a quiet and alone sort of setting It does show that people do comply with the assumption that there are differences between men and women although to a large degree response, differs largely depending on the individual as well. However, it is not useful in completely proving the hypothesis, but useful in showing that everyone is different.
In conclusion, everyone is unique in his/her own way. You can classify, but at the end people are still individuals. =)
Monday, April 7, 2008
Have perceptions of sexuality, in all its different manifestations, changed since this book was published in 1997?
Overall, our group feels that perceptions of sexuality have not changed over the past decade. However, we feel that the notion that sex sells is one that is increasingly strengthening over the years. This is evident in advertisements, whereby companies hire celebrities or so-called "attractive women" to be their spokesperson where the advertisements bank on sex appeal to draw customers. Examples include Marie France Bodyline's Andrea Fonseka, Osim uZap's Fiona Xie as well as Courts-sponsored show Deal or No Deal suitcase's girls.
Our group contributes such a phenomenon to stiff rivalry between advertising firms. Due to the fact that there is greater competition between advertisement firms today, there is a greater need to go all out to attract consumers' attention so as to generate profit and survive in this lucrative industry, thus forcing them to turn to what sells best - sex. Yet, what they fail to realise, is that what they are doing is at the expense of women and are degrading not just women but men, in terms of morality, as well.
Done by:
Yiksin, Edith, Christian, Yu Wen
09S07A (:
Overall, our group feels that perceptions of sexuality have not changed over the past decade. However, we feel that the notion that sex sells is one that is increasingly strengthening over the years. This is evident in advertisements, whereby companies hire celebrities or so-called "attractive women" to be their spokesperson where the advertisements bank on sex appeal to draw customers. Examples include Marie France Bodyline's Andrea Fonseka, Osim uZap's Fiona Xie as well as Courts-sponsored show Deal or No Deal suitcase's girls.
Our group contributes such a phenomenon to stiff rivalry between advertising firms. Due to the fact that there is greater competition between advertisement firms today, there is a greater need to go all out to attract consumers' attention so as to generate profit and survive in this lucrative industry, thus forcing them to turn to what sells best - sex. Yet, what they fail to realise, is that what they are doing is at the expense of women and are degrading not just women but men, in terms of morality, as well.
Done by:
Yiksin, Edith, Christian, Yu Wen
09S07A (:
Reflections on Paint-Chart Test, 7 April
We always assume that gender differences should be very obvious and evident between the two sexes and more often than not we let these gender stereotypes determine our behaviour rather than something which is socially constructed by us. We feel that for the male sex, they should display masculine features such as being very straightforward and to the point while addressing issues or describing objects and they tend to give shorter and more factual answers using concrete nouns. The female sex however is expected to be more emotive in her expression, giving more evaluation and emotion rather than description.
The paint-chart test was an experiment done to test out if these traits are true and present in the masculine and feminine gender. And as seen from our class results, we come to realise that these stereotypes of the society were not exactly true.
It turned out that the girls in the class gave very short and one worded answers while describing the colour. Nouns such as "yellowish, grayish, magenta, teal, olive" were used. There were however some evaluation present when the girls used adjectives such as "ugly, not nice etc". However, majority of the girls had tried to name the colours as accurately as possible.
The boys however gave longer answers that were more emotive in description and they also tried to use objects to describe the colours. "Rose, Eugene's spectacles, banana, brick-red precipitate" were used. Also, their answers were more aimed at providing comic relief and humour rather than to accurately describe the colours they see.
Therefore, the paint-chart test that we did in class today goes to show that gender-stereotyping is therefore not so evident between the two sexes afterall. There is still a difference in the manner of description whereby the girls tried to be as accurate as possible using name of colours to describe while the boys tend to create a link between the colours and the objects and also emotive vocabulary. However, as the boys tried to be funny and create humour in their answers rather than to write down what they truly think, the results of the experiment may not be as accurate as well.
Samantha, Rui Ting, Hong Xiu, Shi Hua
The paint-chart test was an experiment done to test out if these traits are true and present in the masculine and feminine gender. And as seen from our class results, we come to realise that these stereotypes of the society were not exactly true.
It turned out that the girls in the class gave very short and one worded answers while describing the colour. Nouns such as "yellowish, grayish, magenta, teal, olive" were used. There were however some evaluation present when the girls used adjectives such as "ugly, not nice etc". However, majority of the girls had tried to name the colours as accurately as possible.
The boys however gave longer answers that were more emotive in description and they also tried to use objects to describe the colours. "Rose, Eugene's spectacles, banana, brick-red precipitate" were used. Also, their answers were more aimed at providing comic relief and humour rather than to accurately describe the colours they see.
Therefore, the paint-chart test that we did in class today goes to show that gender-stereotyping is therefore not so evident between the two sexes afterall. There is still a difference in the manner of description whereby the girls tried to be as accurate as possible using name of colours to describe while the boys tend to create a link between the colours and the objects and also emotive vocabulary. However, as the boys tried to be funny and create humour in their answers rather than to write down what they truly think, the results of the experiment may not be as accurate as well.
Samantha, Rui Ting, Hong Xiu, Shi Hua
09S07A
Reflections on Paint-Chart Test, 7 April
From the paint-chart test is it evident that even though gender stereotypes exist, the fact is that they may not necessarily manifest themselves in real life. In giving descriptions, males are expected to be more precise, to the point, and supply concrete nouns in the effort to give tangible examples. On the other hand, females are expected to be more emotional, less factual (‘touchy-feely’), and give examples linked to emotions or their evaluation of the color.
The outcome of today’s little classroom experiment has resulted in relatively equal amounts of long-winded statements, as well as short ones, on both sides of the board. Furthermore, there was an even distribution in the usage of concrete and abstract nouns (in which there was a lack of), as well as emotional, evaluative and one-more-category-that-unfortunately-escapes-me-at-this-moment-sorry adjectives. This seems as if the endeavor at illustrating the differences between the male and female characteristics of description has landed flat on its face.
However, there were differences (subtle, but present) that could be picked out. For one, most of the girls’ responses were aimed at being as accurate as possible, with answers that tried to best describe the color by using other colors (e.g. grayish mustard, magenta, teal, rosy-hued etc). There was only one anomaly to the girls’ response, when Sabby decided to use a personal pronoun and a concrete noun, i.e. “my hairband color” – however it too, was an attempt at being accurate.
The boys, instead, used a variety of methods in describing the color: from likening it to objects (i.e. Tarzan’s underwear, slime, pimple etc), to a slew of seemingly unrelated words (i.e. Nick Yun). A pattern can be picked out from here, which is that boys tend to write down words that would undoubtedly elicit response from their peers (not to mention their teacher), as well as words that satisfy their impulses.
This exercise hence shows that whilst females provide the level-headedness that society requires to function as per normal, males provide comic relief.
Done By: Abigail Ho, Ewen Chong, Goh Ying Ying, Jonathan Neo, Toh Xueqian
[09S07A]
The outcome of today’s little classroom experiment has resulted in relatively equal amounts of long-winded statements, as well as short ones, on both sides of the board. Furthermore, there was an even distribution in the usage of concrete and abstract nouns (in which there was a lack of), as well as emotional, evaluative and one-more-category-that-unfortunately-escapes-me-at-this-moment-sorry adjectives. This seems as if the endeavor at illustrating the differences between the male and female characteristics of description has landed flat on its face.
However, there were differences (subtle, but present) that could be picked out. For one, most of the girls’ responses were aimed at being as accurate as possible, with answers that tried to best describe the color by using other colors (e.g. grayish mustard, magenta, teal, rosy-hued etc). There was only one anomaly to the girls’ response, when Sabby decided to use a personal pronoun and a concrete noun, i.e. “my hairband color” – however it too, was an attempt at being accurate.
The boys, instead, used a variety of methods in describing the color: from likening it to objects (i.e. Tarzan’s underwear, slime, pimple etc), to a slew of seemingly unrelated words (i.e. Nick Yun). A pattern can be picked out from here, which is that boys tend to write down words that would undoubtedly elicit response from their peers (not to mention their teacher), as well as words that satisfy their impulses.
This exercise hence shows that whilst females provide the level-headedness that society requires to function as per normal, males provide comic relief.
Done By: Abigail Ho, Ewen Chong, Goh Ying Ying, Jonathan Neo, Toh Xueqian
[09S07A]
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Whose views on sex and gender do you agree with more – those of Jan Morris or those of Leonard Sax?
Before voicing our views, we must first consider what are the two parties’ stand on sex and gender, in order to provide a fair comparison.
Jan Morris’s stand is that gender is defined by society, which begins from birth. This definition is caused by firstly parents, who tend to treat boys and girls in 2 distinct ways, and societal cultural influences, where society stereotype and divides the views and treatments on different gender groups. This definition arises from our everyday actions, and Jan Morris feels that no aspect of our lives is not gendered.
Leonard Sax’s stand is that there are innate factors within us which defines our gender and that it is not entirely socially constructed, and that there are still clear gender variations which cannot be defined by society. He feels that the influence of social factors on gender traits is overestimated and the innate gender variations are neglected.
We agree more with Jan Morris’s view that our gender is indeed defined by societal views. Our bodies are all constructed uniquely from young, and we feel that since there are cases, like gays and homosexuality, which exists and actually overstep the gender boundaries supposedly demarcated by our body construction and innate traits, that gender is indeed not clearly demarcated by our innate variations, and thus, societal influence plays the largest role in defining gender. Our main argument will be the aspect of hormonal growth and attraction to the opposite sex.
One example would be the fact that men can be hormonally attracted to parties of the similar “gender” shows that gender is in fact not as inherently defined by our bodies, as if it is defined inherently, then men could not possibly be attracted to men, as hormonally, these are supposed to be attracted to people of the opposite sex, thus, gays and homosexuals should technically not exist if gender is defined by innate factors, thus, refuting Sax’s argument that gender are defined by innate factors, and supporting our agreement with Morris’s stand that gender is largely defined by society.
Done by: Xue Qian, Abigail, Ewen, Jonathan, Ying Ying
09S07A
1. How does Leonard Sax challenge commonly accepted definitions of "sex" and "gender"?
Sax believes that contrary to popular opinion, gender is not solely a social construct; physical attributes also play a part. For example, a woman with small breasts may innately feel more masculine because of her physiology and as of such, Sax believes that the variations of gender among individuals cannot be completely attributed to the influence of social factors.
He is also of the opinion that the meaning of the word "sex" can often be unclear in a sentence – for example, readers might mistake it for "sexual activity" instead of "biological identity" as intended. In such cases, Sax believes that the word "gender" should be used as less confusion will be generated by its use.
Samantha, Rui Ting, Hong Xiu, Shi Hua
09S07A
Sax believes that contrary to popular opinion, gender is not solely a social construct; physical attributes also play a part. For example, a woman with small breasts may innately feel more masculine because of her physiology and as of such, Sax believes that the variations of gender among individuals cannot be completely attributed to the influence of social factors.
He is also of the opinion that the meaning of the word "sex" can often be unclear in a sentence – for example, readers might mistake it for "sexual activity" instead of "biological identity" as intended. In such cases, Sax believes that the word "gender" should be used as less confusion will be generated by its use.
Samantha, Rui Ting, Hong Xiu, Shi Hua
09S07A
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Gender & Sexuality - Questions for Discussion
A Semantic Note on “Sex” and “Gender”
Leonard Sax
1. How does Leonard Sax challenge commonly accepted definitions of “sex” and “gender”?
Sex is a dichotomous biological variable. Humans are either female or male.
Gender is a continuous variable. Gender is socially constructed. Humans can be mostly feminine, mostly masculine, or anything in between.
These are two commonly accepted definitions of “sex” and “gender” according to a 2001 monograph published by the National Academies.
Leonard Sax challenges these definitions in two ways.
Firstly, he does not agree that gender is socially constructed, but is instead something that is inherent in our beings. He claims that the authors of the monograph assume that as there is a variation of gender presentation among members of one sex (I.E. in certain cases, some men are more feminine than masculine; some women are more masculine than feminine), gender must be socially constructed. Instead, he believes that while social factors might play a role in causing these variations, our gender traits are rather more caused by our own innate personalities than anything else. To prove his point, he points out that breast size (something most people see as an indicator of femininity) varies from person to person, regardless of male or female. While social factors may instigate some women to increase this or men to decrease this, it is truly an inborn factor to begin with.
Secondly, Leonard Sax believes that the definition of sex as described in the monograph is not entirely applicable in reality. In the sentence, “Girls often become more concerned with femininity as gender/sex becomes more salient”, the meanings of gender and sex are completely different. While gender refers here to the feminine identity, when ‘sex’ is used, it can be construed as referring more to the sexual activity rather than the definition of biological dichotomy as assumed above. With his example, Leonard Sax shows how these rules/definitions lead to ambiguity rather than precision.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Gender and Sexuality - Questions for Discussion
3. Do you think that the arguments presented in this text apply to Singaporean society? Why or why not?
In the first part of the text, it stated that sexual differences are ingrained in all of us since the very beginning, to the extent that it has become so pervasive and influential in our lives. In addition, the text argues that "gender socialization begins as soon as an infant is born." I believe that such a phenomenon is virtually universal in the developed world, with Singapore being no exception. For instance, accessories for infants such as clothes, toys, etc. tend to be either for boys or girls rather than be unisex. This is most blatant in the fact that the colour scheme for such items tend to be blue for boys and pink for girls.
Furthermore, the text argues that gender is a social activity and not an innate quality, "something we all have to 'do' in our everyday actions, day in and day out." It says that "the subtle ways which we do gender are so much part of our lives that we don't notice them until they are missing or radically altered. This is most certainly relevant to Singaporean society too. Such a phenomenon is most easily seen in the fact when people of a certain sex do not exhibit their supposed gender traits. For instance, when a man acts effeminately, he will often get ostracized or be treated as if he was "different". This just shows how gender stereotypes are deeply entrenched in most modern societies today, including Singapore.
Eugene, Vionna, Sabrina, Nicholas, Ivan
In the first part of the text, it stated that sexual differences are ingrained in all of us since the very beginning, to the extent that it has become so pervasive and influential in our lives. In addition, the text argues that "gender socialization begins as soon as an infant is born." I believe that such a phenomenon is virtually universal in the developed world, with Singapore being no exception. For instance, accessories for infants such as clothes, toys, etc. tend to be either for boys or girls rather than be unisex. This is most blatant in the fact that the colour scheme for such items tend to be blue for boys and pink for girls.
Furthermore, the text argues that gender is a social activity and not an innate quality, "something we all have to 'do' in our everyday actions, day in and day out." It says that "the subtle ways which we do gender are so much part of our lives that we don't notice them until they are missing or radically altered. This is most certainly relevant to Singaporean society too. Such a phenomenon is most easily seen in the fact when people of a certain sex do not exhibit their supposed gender traits. For instance, when a man acts effeminately, he will often get ostracized or be treated as if he was "different". This just shows how gender stereotypes are deeply entrenched in most modern societies today, including Singapore.
Eugene, Vionna, Sabrina, Nicholas, Ivan
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