We are all familiar with stereotyping in our day to day lives. Broadly speaking, stereotypes are characteristics imposed upon an entire group of people because of their specific identity markers–including: race, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, age, etc. These characteristics tend to be oversimplifications, and while a single individual might potentially embody the traits of a specific stereotype, they are not representative of members of the group. Stereotypes are not always accurate and even if positive, can be harmful.
Keeping this definition in mind, what are some of the stereotypes addressed in this module’s readings and video texts? Can you think of other examples of stereotyping in the mass/popular culture that you consume? Why do you think mass/popular culture relies so heavily on stereotypes?