FeministLawProf Deborah Rhode writes that “Subtle Sexism Exists” in a recent edition of the National Law Journal. Rhode argues that discrimination against women seems to have declined, but still exists in many forms:
There is . . . a more subtle side of sexism: a cluster of social expectations and practices that, in effect if not intent, reinforce sex-based inequality . . . . Women spend significantly more time than men do on their families and personal appearance. These disparities are generally attributed not to sexism but to personal preference. Yet what are too often missed or marginalized in discussions of women’s “different choices” are the costs that those choices carry, and the extent to which they are socially constructed and constrained . . . .
Even when male and female performance is objectively equal, women’s competence is rated lower. Résumés are evaluated more favorably when they carry male rather than female names, and women receive lower ratings . . . .
Those who invest too much in their appearance are condemned as shallow, vain and narcissistic. Those who invest too little, or fall too far short, are less likely to be hired or promoted, or to date and marry, than their more attractive counterparts.
The problems increase with women’s age. Older men can look distinguished; older women risk marginalization as “unattractive” or ridicule for efforts to pass as young . . . .
Hat tip: Marie Newman.
-Posted by Bridget Crawford
My favorite recent example concerns an article written by a transgendered person. As a male scientist, he received high praise for his presentations. Later, after he had become a woman, he continued to give lectures, and heard such remarks made about him as “Not a bad presentation, but her brother was much better.”
Yes, subtle sexism exists, but so does outright blatant sexism. And in large quantities. It’s particularly evident when I’m around other men with no women around. Especially when they don’t know me or where I used to work or what I do (and even when they do know!), men are frequently blatantly sexist when around other men. Calling them on it is my responsibility (but I’m human and don’t do it as much as I should). But it still exists . . . a lot.