ASA 141
Week 9
In this week's reading "Race and Beauty", Katherine Frith compares Asian and Western models in Women's magazines. She found that Western models are used more in advertisements which are body orientated due to the marketing strategy that "sex sells". This goes to show that Western women are seen to be sexier and more attractive than Asian women. It could also mean that objectification of women may be culturally or racially based, with Western women being the victim.
I personally do not completely agree with the results of this article. I do believe that Caucasian models are often depicted to be more superior in media. They are often deemed the "norm". Growing up, I always thought there was something wrong with me- my skin was too dark, so was my hair, my eyes were a boring brown. I did not look like the models I would see on TV. I know I'm not the only one in these shoes. This is why many people try to "whitewash" themselves. Although they were deemed to be the norm, I do not agree that they have the most sex appeal. Due to personal experience, I have realized that people like things that are out of the ordinary. It's almost as if they fetishize people of other cultures. I cannot tell you the number of times I have been called "exotic" or have been told by a guy that they've "never been with an Indian girl". I am aware that I am not the only girl who has been through this. What is it about being out of the norm that fascinates other people? Does modern media influence the "fetishization" and objectification of women of non-Caucasian backgrounds? I am unsure of the answers, but I am sure of one thing-- It doesn't matter what your skin color is or what physical features you have, everyone is beautiful in their own skin no matter what.
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