Definition: social, cultural, and psychological traits linked to sex (male/female) through particular social
contexts.
Gender is an
achieved status.
Something we have
to “do” (or achieve)
by socially accepted
rituals.
Gender is a true
spectrum. Our
definitions of
gender range from
no control of
gender (biological
determinism, to
all control of
gender (individual
identity).
Connell’s definition: how human society deals with human bodies. Gender
dynamics are complex, powerful, and diverse. The dynamics are made up
of practices, relationships, expectations, and images that are subject to
change across cultures and time.
McIntosh’s definition includes power structures.
Unearned entitlements that should belong to
everyone, but men recieve unearned advantages
because of their gender and there is conferred
dominance (power) from these advantages.
Gender is not: sex. Sex is the
biological characteristics
distinguishing males and
females; emphasizing anatomy,
physiology, hormones, and
reproductive systems.
NEED TO ADD NOTES FROM BLOOM READING
Is gender caused by nature
(biology) or nurture
(environment)? Both. They are
mutually influential. We can’t
separate the effects of biology
and environment.
Environment can change your
biology.
Gender is a social structure. It is a
pattern of relationships. Social
structures are often invisible.
Gender is invisible.
These patterns are opposite
and exclusive. Our culture
values the traits ascribed to
men (aggressive, strong,
independence, confident)
Connell described Thorne’s work on Gender
Play. Children are separated by language early
on in schooling and learn what is acceptable
based on the reactions of elders and peers
when they push the boundaries of gender.