A 1980s feminist view of Firefly.

[roseembolism]

(Courtesy of James Nicoll's blog (and whoever he got it from)

The alternative title is, "Josh Whedon as Rapist" . 

I've actually got mixed feelings about this one, beyond the "OMG, this is SO 1980s".   To be sure, this reminds me of the "academic to the point of sillyness" feminist/deconstructionist  rants I used to read back in college, which these days generally provoke a roll-eye reaction.  But then I have to consider what experiences led to this woman concluding that all relationships between men and women boil down to abuse and rape.

It's not that I actually consider Josh Whedon as much of a feminist, beyond surface "girls kick ass!" elements.  But her view of the man- hell all men- as abusers, and as sex as rape, is not just old-fashioned, it's sad ad disturbing.  And I have to wonder how many people out there have the same viewpoint, and what may have caused them to think that, which is depressing.  And then I start wondering how much progress we as a society have really made...

...and it's time to go do something else.  Because I don't have any answers right now.

Comments

[baronlaw.livejournal.com]

I know at least a dozen powerful, strong women friends who greatly enjoyed Firefly. Obviously they have been brain washed by the male dominated media system?

[devonapple.livejournal.com]

[disclaimer]That would be the argument, yes -- that whatever strength these strong women *think* they have is actually leased or temporarily bestowed upon them by the patriarchal oppression, and when push comes to shove, it'll be taken right back. That in order for them to be blessed with the mantle of "Strength" they need to also be hot, and deferential to stronger male authority. [/disclaimer]

Needless to say, the post hurt my brain. A lot. And I already had a sinus headache to begin with. She put so much effort and research into something so skewed and hurtful that she doesn't even see that she is breaking her own rule about racism, or that she is being more divisive than insightful.

[roseembolism.livejournal.com]

Honestly, I think it could have been any show she was talking about. Her viewpoint is internal, not external.