Masculine-Feminine+Discussion

Make it Interesting!
As I read through previous postings, I'm noticing similar thoughts and reactions. There's nothing wrong with agreeing with people. Remember, though, that these questions are intended to be open ended, meaning there's no one, "correct" answer. Consider challenging your thinking ability by supporting the opposite of what you truly believe (with specific examples, of course). Think outside the box! Consider how someone who doesn't have your background would respond. As always, specific examples from your book, articles, or observations are helpful.

I thought some comics might lighten your mood.

[[image:Gender_Roles_Garfield.gif width="415" height="279" align="center" caption="The gender expectations of a man: if you cry, you're not "Senor Macho"."]]
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Difference between sex and gender
As you discuss this weekend, make sure you distinguish between sex (what a person is physically: male/female) and gender (what attributes are associated with being submissive/weak [feminine] or having power/strong [masculine]). This is not to say women are weak and submissive but that this is how gender differs from sex.

Some starters for questions
You can (and should) create your own topics related to the idea of differences between genders, their treatment, and expectations. If you can't think of anything, consider the ones below.
 * Women are often objectified or treated only as sex objects, while men are depicted as obsessed with sex. This seems to be how masculinity and femininity are defined in both America and the Middle East, which is one reason why the school has a dress code. Is the dress code necessary? Is it too lenient? Too strict?
 * What is defined as being "feminine" and "masculine" has changed significantly over the past 20 years in America. You'd see few female doctors or male nurses when I was born. Which gender expectation (think jobs, physical appearance, how one acts in public, general stereotypes, etc.) has changed the most during this time?
 * Many women claim that wearing the burka is freeing and desire to wear it. Explain how they are right.
 * Analyze any of the cartoons. What does it mean to be masculine/feminine, according to the artist?
 * Give your thoughts on the movie Osama. Avoid saying "it's depressing" or "it's slow". Explain how it is connected to this week's topic.
 * The two articles from Tuesday that were claimed the quickest were the ones dealing with homosexuality. I don't know how to make a question out of this statement but thought it was interesting, especially since I heard the comment "Sodomy should be illegal everywhere" on Friday.
 * There tends to be a double standard between men and women: women can do X, but men can't. What is the biggest double standard in America currently?
 * Many Middle Eastern countries base their government off the Qur'an/Koran, which claims women are equal to men. America is based off the Declaration of Independence, which claims everyone is equal. In terms of women's rights, who is the biggest liar?
 * What conclusions can we draw from the fact that the majority of these questions deal with women/femininity?
 * Your own