Imus and Nappy-headed-ho's

[Hime]

Very thought-provoking article. I especially agree with the description of sexualizing language being used to "put women in their place." I have seen so many conversations among men about Hillary Clinton, Ann Coulter, Condoleeza Rice, Nancy Pelosi and other powerful and influential women come down to "But would you do her?" It's an obvious and stupid defense mechanism against the idea of a woman having power.

[jinx]

Originally Posted by Hime

Very thought-provoking article. I especially agree with the description of sexualizing language being used to "put women in their place." I have seen so many conversations among men about Hillary Clinton, Ann Coulter, Condoleeza Rice, Nancy Pelosi and other powerful and influential women come down to "But would you do her?" It's an obvious and stupid defense mechanism against the idea of a woman having power.

I think you're giving men too much credit here with the idea that they are intentionally trying to keep women down... I think they're just horny. I've seen plenty of men discussing the thoughts and philosophies of Clinton, Coulter, et al. and when that conversation fizzles out, what's wrong with asking "would you do her?". Are women "in power" no longer sexual creatures? Are men supposed to pretend that they don't size all women up that way?

I don't see Imus' "sexist" remarks as being any different than if I were to comment on the nice asses of the wide recievers during a football game. I'm just not that into football and the mind wanders, kwim?

[Hime]

Originally Posted by jinx

I think you're giving men too much credit here with the idea that they are intentionally trying to keep women down... I think they're just horny. I've seen plenty of men discussing the thoughts and philosophies of Clinton, Coulter, et al. and when that conversation fizzles out, what's wrong with asking "would you do her?". Are women "in power" no longer sexual creatures? Are men supposed to pretend that they don't size all women up that way?

I don't see Imus' "sexist" remarks as being any different than if I were to comment on the nice asses of the wide recievers during a football game. I'm just not that into football and the mind wanders, kwim?

I don't think it's intentional on the part of most men, I think it's a subconscious reaction to the fear of women in power. And it's different when it's accompanied by thoughtful discussion, as you said -- I'm more thinking of the guys who talk as though a woman has no worth if she isn't sexy, like if someone quotes Madeline Albright and he says "ew, that troll?" That's a fear reaction, and it is misogynistic.

And on the other side, I presume from your comments that you are a woman. Have you ever known a guy who clearly had no respect for you, but wanted to get into your pants, so he wouldn't listen to what you said but would constantly fawn over you for being attractive? I have been in that situation more than once, and I find it extremely demeaning. When I am talking to you, I am not a "sexual creature," I am your fellow human being, and I expect to be evaluated on my ideas and talents, not on my rack or my hairstyle.

[BigV]

Originally Posted by jinx

I think you're giving men too much credit here with the idea that they are intentionally trying to keep women down... I think they're just horny. --snip--

Originally Posted by Hime

I don't think it's intentional on the part of most men, I think it's a subconscious reaction to the fear of women in power.--snip--

And the score at the end of the first inning: jinx 1, Hime 0.

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