please respond to each post adding viable information and continuing the conversation 

 

post 1 

 

Studying gender can make someone more aware of how implicit assumptions influence the structure of institutions. "Thus, universities are built on hidden assumptions that keep alive a conception according to which men's work in academia becomes a sacred value justifying the emotional and economic exploitation of women. Women accede only to inferior positions in hierarchy, they are secretaries, teaching assistants, etc. while men get easier promotions on high positions where they are allowed, in the name of the their sacred work, to benefit from the invisible work and merits of women" (Răducu, 2011). The assumption that men are suited for academia and that their work is of superior importance is embedded in a structural hierarchy where women occupy inferior positions and are used instrumentally by men for career advancement. The structure perpetuates itself, as those who benefit from inequality are motivated to justify and maintain it. The hope is that by studying gender, people can learn to see gender hierarchy where it exists even if women aren't openly barred from holding certain positions. Marginalized groups have only ever been afforded rights they were previously denied as a result of collective action. Without a civil rights movement, an LGBTQ+ pride movement, or a feminist movement, social progress is impossible. One of the most dangerous and effective arguments made by those who oppose these movements is that their work is already done, and any further activism amounts to reverse discrimination. An education in the numerous issues these groups still face could very well dispel this assumption for many and make the world a better place. Sexism is often accompanied by a complementarian worldview, where people of different genders are thought to be biologically suited for different roles, and this argument is used as a basis to justify the subordination of women. Sociology is a discipline which studies human behavior in accordance with the scientific method. Thus, it can play a role in proving that gendered behavior is determined by socialization rather than biology, which undermines the idea that hierarchy based on biological sex is natural.

 

 

Post 2 

 

Studying gender from a sociological standpoint provides valuable insights into how our understanding of masculinity, femininity, and the spectrum in between influences the society we live in as well as our individual lives. This week's reading offers a deeper understanding on dealing with real-world issues and addressing social change. Gender has a crucial role in the society. It influences how we interact with other people, the kind of opportunities we have access to, and even the manner in which we perceive ourselves. In particular, studying gender helps us know how gender intersects with other social identities such as race and sexuality to perpetuate various forms of social stratification and marginalization (Wilson et al., 2019).

Research in gender and social change provides data on gender disparities and helps analyze the root causes of gender-based discrimination. As a result, sociologists can use such information to raise awareness about critical issues such as gender pay gap, gender-based violence, and limited education access and healthcare for specific genders.

One of the many things I have learned that I can employ outside this class is the interconnectedness of gender with other social structures such as gender expressions and sexuality (Levitt, 2019). Having this understanding will help me assess my assumptions and biases, and challenge gender stereotypes in everyday interactions. I have also learned vital insights on the need to advocate for people that face gender-based discrimination.

I would specifically recommend a course on gender for everyone. Studying gender could equip an individual with the knowledge and critical thinking skills they need to challenge societal norms, promote empathy and understanding, and contribute to a more equitable society. The field of sociology of gender has immense value within the university curriculum. It fosters critical thinking, social change, and motivates people to become pioneers of positive transformation.