Blog 9

The dehumanization of the male characters in House is a questionable occurrence. These male characters are not necessarily dehumanized but rather consistently tormented by House. This can be seen as a socializing message of the show; if one does not exude the degrading patriarchal dominance represented by House, then one is the object of degradation. Thus, this aspect of the show serves to perpetuate patriarchal values by playing on people’s desire to avoid degradation and tormenting. In summary, the dehumanization of the male characters is not as apparent as is how they are used to portray the supremacy of dominant patriarchal characters. They are not the object of sexist acts and sexist, objectified depictions (clothes, etc) to the extent that the female characters are. In addition, the male characters outnumber the female characters on the show, adding a visual confirmation of patriarchal male dominance illustrated throughout the show.

Cuddy’s relationship with House has connections to patriarchal ideals as well. Although Cuddy is the supervisor, she is not respected and holds little sway over House. Therefore, the relationship between these two portrays patriarchy and the idea that women, although possibly having a higher position of work authority, are still not worthy of male deference.

Also, as stated in my sixth blog, the actions depicted in the fan video (House grabbing Cuddy’s butt) allude to a possible attraction. This also displays, however, House’s dominance, control, and objectification of Cuddy and her body. This occurs both in obvious means, such as the grabbing of Cuddy’s butt, and through House’s comments. Thus, House portrays “systematic inequalities…that maintain women’s second-class status – culturally, economically, and politically” (Kirk and Okazawa-Rey 249). Such ideals, perpetuated by this show, have far reaching connections and implications for women. These ideals and socializing aspects contribute to the ‘normalization’ of abuse and degradation of women. In essence, “when we hear or express sexist jokes and other forms of misogyny [such as from shows like House], we may not recognize it” (Johnson 36) and in fact normalize it, thus leading to abuse and harassment.

Johnson, Allan G. “Patriarchy, the System: An It, Not a He, a Them, or an Us.” Women’s Lives: Multicultural Perspectives. Ed. Gwyn Kirk and Margo Okazawa-Rey. 4th ed. New York: McGraw Hill, 2007. 28-37.

Kirk, Gwyn and Margo Okazawa-Rey. “Violence Against Women.” Ed. Gwyn Kirk and Margo Okazawa-Rey. Women’s Lives: Multicultural Perspectives. 4th ed. New York: McGraw Hill, 2007. 249-263.

Lililo78. “Dr Cuddy – Bootylicious.” YouTube. 31 July 2007. <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ay-lvSwAJX0&feature=related>. 2 March 2009.