'...prioritising boys and men in access to food, which, over time, led to a greater degree of sexual dimorphism...'
Damn, that's really messed up....also considering the fact that such practices potentially influenced the genetic makeup of women in terms of body size and height from that point onwards up till today.
This is such great work. I learned so much, and then just as I'm thinking "this is related to diet culture / thinness mandates!" you go there. Outstanding.
That's a big question. But I think it all comes down to challenging the cultural narrative, so addressing the gender biases and stereotypes that still lead to or justify these inequalities. Even in more gender-equal countries, boys and girls start internalizing these norms as early as 3-5 years old because practically everything in our world is gendered.
It's so true, Katie. Challenging deep-rooted cultural narratives is crucial in addressing gender inequalities. It’s amazing how early these biases start to form in children. I find that by first being aware and actively working to change these norms, we can create a more equitable society for all.
Well said, again. I do enjoy how thoroughly you explain your findings.
"But it’s a shame we so often forget about it in favour of simplistic narratives that, not coincidentally, only serve a select group of people in our world."
On the last tidbit, I have always thought that oppressive regimes must be simplistic in their claims. To investigate them with an average level of intelligence and education will always show they are unfair, and out of balance. One might compare it to the Vulture Capitalist "Elevator Pitch" (where one enters an elevator and an Investor gets on with you; You must pitch the core of your idea during that ride).
USA's Orange Disaster speaks in sound bites and bullet points (or spews word salads). Simple enough for the reading impaired to understand them. Which ties in well with GOP's long history of cutting education at every possible opportunity.
An under educated populace is easier to lie to, and to foil. Plus, bonus points, they can repeat bullet points with no requirement to understand them. Much less parse the false narrative that festered them.
I was expecting the link to “global estimates” to be connected to a study where the methodology etc was laid out. Not so. Without more background on this study this has the reliability of an opinion. :(
Mind blown, as always! To be conditioned to think women are meant to be smaller than men…! Aaargh
But yes! Since patriarchy has a historical start, it means it can also end! Let’s go!!!
It's wild how many misconceptions and sometimes outright lies had to manufactured to keep women down.
✊🏻🧡
Wonderful historical essay with excellent scientific references on patriarchy. 👍
Thank you!
'...prioritising boys and men in access to food, which, over time, led to a greater degree of sexual dimorphism...'
Damn, that's really messed up....also considering the fact that such practices potentially influenced the genetic makeup of women in terms of body size and height from that point onwards up till today.
Insightful article, Katie!
Exactly, it's troubling to think about the potential impact of this norm. Thank you, glad you found this piece insightful!
This is such great work. I learned so much, and then just as I'm thinking "this is related to diet culture / thinness mandates!" you go there. Outstanding.
Thank you, so glad you appreciated it!
Woah, the idea that food was weaponized to maintain control is both disturbing and eye-opening.
It’s a reminder of how deeply interconnected our social systems and basic needs are.
Katie, this is my first time reading your post-how do you think modern society can address these deep-rooted inequalities related to food and gender?
That's a big question. But I think it all comes down to challenging the cultural narrative, so addressing the gender biases and stereotypes that still lead to or justify these inequalities. Even in more gender-equal countries, boys and girls start internalizing these norms as early as 3-5 years old because practically everything in our world is gendered.
It's so true, Katie. Challenging deep-rooted cultural narratives is crucial in addressing gender inequalities. It’s amazing how early these biases start to form in children. I find that by first being aware and actively working to change these norms, we can create a more equitable society for all.
Well said, again. I do enjoy how thoroughly you explain your findings.
"But it’s a shame we so often forget about it in favour of simplistic narratives that, not coincidentally, only serve a select group of people in our world."
On the last tidbit, I have always thought that oppressive regimes must be simplistic in their claims. To investigate them with an average level of intelligence and education will always show they are unfair, and out of balance. One might compare it to the Vulture Capitalist "Elevator Pitch" (where one enters an elevator and an Investor gets on with you; You must pitch the core of your idea during that ride).
USA's Orange Disaster speaks in sound bites and bullet points (or spews word salads). Simple enough for the reading impaired to understand them. Which ties in well with GOP's long history of cutting education at every possible opportunity.
An under educated populace is easier to lie to, and to foil. Plus, bonus points, they can repeat bullet points with no requirement to understand them. Much less parse the false narrative that festered them.
Thank you. Oversimplification and lack of nuance can be quite dangerous, but unfortunately, it sells so, so well.
Ok !!!! 🙌🙌🙌🙌
I was expecting the link to “global estimates” to be connected to a study where the methodology etc was laid out. Not so. Without more background on this study this has the reliability of an opinion. :(