JAL355H5 Study Guide - Midterm Guide: Masculinity, George Lakoff, Upper Class
Document Summary
Gender is something we do (west&zimmerman 1987), something we perform (butler 1990) A categorical distinction in the use of language by men and women. A statistical distinction in the use of language by men and women. Deficit: the male form is regarded as the standard or norm, whereas the female form is regarded as less than (or a deviation) from the norm. Thus, most early research describes a deficit in women"s language. Difference: this approach states that women"s and men"s language are simply different styles of communication as a result of both biological differences and differences in socialization. A form is used more by women/ more by men. Problem: this approach disregards the role of power and subordination as related to or a consequence of the aforementioned differences each group shares. Problem: context is critical- men are not always dominant of women in all situations, this argument requires more sophistication.
