One thing that the Internet exposes is that hate for certain groups has not run its course and that many hateful, negative feelings that people harbor toward certain groups are still as strong as ever.
In Sarkeesian's article the amount of viciousness displayed for simply researching discriminatory practices in video games, was ridiculously hateful, mean and malicious and I'm sure, took her and others back a bit.
Though, saddened by this article and others I have read, I cannot say that I am surprised. Though women and minorities have come a long way in the fight for equality, this article shows that there is still quite a ways to go. Television does an excellent job of down playing stereotypes and discrimination. So clever is it disguised, that many question whether or not certain stereotypes, (Blacks as criminals, women as bitches, Asians as brainiacs), are even a problem. The Internet, fortunately or unfortunately- depending on how you look at it) is not afforded this same luxury, as individuals, (who are not as meticulous in their approach to disguise their hate), showcase their true, exposed feelings of hate and nonacceptance. Though many cowardly hide behind false identities, the message of hate is clear.
While most see the Internet as a place of equality and freedom, I see it as a place where realities are played out, sometimes unmercifully. By taking an honest look at the Internet, perhaps, it will helps us to take an honest look at the world we live in and stop making excuses when, for instance, women's basic rights are challenged and debated as if the arguments are even plausible. Perhaps, by examining Internet content, it will help us take an honest look at the real world we live in today and instead of saying "things are much better", we will open our eyes to the realities of hate toward women and others and begin to confront and address these issues, as Sarkeesian is doing.
No comments:
Post a Comment