How do historical and contemporary gender roles influence Chinese and Western audience reactions to feminist media?5 answersHistorical and contemporary gender roles significantly shape Chinese and Western audience responses to feminist media. In China, the influence of Western feminist ideals has led to a notable evolution in the portrayal of female characters in films, reflecting a shift towards more empowered representations. Chinese audiences, particularly in women-centered TV series, reject hypermasculinization and prefer realistic depictions of women with autonomy and imperfections, showcasing a postfeminist sensibility in a non-Western context. Conversely, Western feminist media cultures, influenced by economic precarity and the digital turn in feminism, have led to the global popularity of feminist ideas within digital culture, emphasizing the networked and 'likeable' nature of feminist content. These dynamics highlight how historical gender norms and contemporary societal changes shape audience reactions to feminist media in both Chinese and Western contexts.
What was the position and role of women in ancient Greek societies?4 answersWomen in ancient Greek societies had a limited position and role. They were dominated by men and their roles and competence were strictly defined. Women's education was not organized by the city-state, although some women from rich families had access to education. Women's knowledge and voice were not welcome in the public domain, but there were exceptions. Women played important roles as midwives, physicians, and herbal specialists/pharmacists. However, women were excluded from the active life in the polis and did not have civil rights. Athenian women were under the control of men and the state, which was interested in the birth of healthy citizens capable of participating in the management of the polis. The views on the status of women in ancient Greece were ambivalent, and women were often excluded from real, active community life.
What is the role of the Chinese state/government in shaping the feminist movement in China?5 answersThe Chinese state/government plays a significant role in shaping the feminist movement in China. Government policies have been implemented to promote women's entrepreneurship, improve gender inequality, and protect women's rights. State feminism, which emphasizes top-down regulation and policy, has been used to promote women's rights as part of the state's broader development agenda. However, this approach has also exacerbated gender inequality and harmed women's rights in a patriarchal society. Despite the existence of state programs, women still face systemic discrimination and disadvantage, and civil society actors face difficulties in advocating for gender equality. The All-China Women's Federation (ACWF), as a state-sponsored organization, has been involved in promoting gender equality but has also faced challenges in effectively representing women's interests. In the long term, local Women's Federations are facing institutional problems that hinder the further development of China's state feminism.
How has the gender gap in enrollment in Chinese colleges and universities changed over time?5 answersThe gender gap in enrollment in Chinese colleges and universities has changed over time. Initially, there was a gender imbalance, with more men than women attending higher education institutions. However, recent studies have shown a reversal of this trend, with women gradually reaching parity or even surpassing men in college attendance and completion. This decrease in gender inequality over time has created a perception of parity, but it masks differential experiences of women from different family backgrounds. Women from socioeconomically advantaged family backgrounds are the ones who have reached parity or surpassed men in college enrollment. Additionally, there has been a substantial narrowing of the gender gap in schooling, with girls now having more education on average than boys. However, gender inequality in enrollment opportunities has deepened qualitatively, with students from better family backgrounds and male students having more chances to enter elite universities.
How has the public sphere in China evolved over time?5 answersThe public sphere in China has evolved over time through various factors and developments. Initially, the focus was on studying the publications and public practices associated with knowledge communities, which played a unique role in modifying the dynamics of political events. The historical evolution of political legitimacy in China has shaped the public sphere, with its native ideological origin, historical forms, and functions in public opinion. The emergence of a vibrant public sphere in China can be attributed to the promotion of law, which nurtured a sense of rights consciousness and provided a state-sanctioned language for citizens. Additionally, the commercial turn in Chinese media organizations led to critical news reporting that set the public agenda and prompted a rethinking of the relationship between individuals and the state. Furthermore, the rise of social media platforms like TikTok has provided a new space for public engagement, although it is described as a "limited public sphere" with restricted social impact.
How has the role of women in society changed over time?4 answersThe role of women in society has evolved over time. In the past, women were often seen as inferior and oppressed, with their worth being based on their fertility and ability to serve men. However, in recent decades, there has been a significant shift in the roles played by women. They have become breadwinners, business entrepreneurs, corporate executives, and policy makers. Women have also made strides in education and career advancement, gradually achieving leadership positions that were previously dominated by men. Despite facing obstacles, women's status and power have greatly improved, both at the societal and individual level. However, it is important to note that cultural pressures and expectations still exist, limiting women's choices and opportunities. The historical division of labor, influenced by different agricultural technologies, has also shaped the role of women in society, with differences persisting in aspects such as marital arrangements and freedom of movement.