Different types of feminists have different opinions on the representations of women:
Liberal feminists believe that exploitation benefits neither men nor women, and are positive about the changes woman have made and are making in society. Liberal feminists seek change through legislation and are generally the least offensive of feminists.
Marxist feminists believe that sexism (as well as racism) keeps the working classes divided. The media reinforces a patriarchal ideology and the hegemonic views of the ruling classes. It is argued that this is because the media is owned by mainly old, white, hetereosexual, middle class men.
Radical feminists think also that the media maintains a patriarchal ideology that men benefit from. Women are often subject to violence in the household and the media aids this abuse by depicting them as sex objects, respect is lost and violence occurs. The media presents a "malestream" perspective according to radical feminists.
Black feminists suggest that they suffer from both sexism and racism in the media, and so are the most underrepresented section of society. When given representation, they are generally stereotyped as aggressive, as criminals, as fat and loving or funny and therefore made to seem a joke. This is the opposite of the very white beauty ideal shown in the mainstream media.
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