Prejudices

[Kyburz at asu.edu]

On Tue, 3 Dec 1996, Joe Varo wrote:

> On Tue, 3 Dec 1996, David Casseres wrote:
> 
> > So, you have an example of a feminist [Gloria Steinem] (yeah, I think
> > she's one) who has said something that raises some problems.  So what,
> > Joe?
> 
> I'm just trying to figure out what one has to say or not say to be
> considered a feminist.  Apparently you can say something really moronic
> and still be part of the gang, so long as you toe the line.  But should
> you dissent in some way then an attempt is made to squelch you.


Oh come on now.  Here on this list we are in the business of denouncing one
another.  We understand (as Pynchon has made clear in his work) that even 
among those who claim some kind of consensus, there are vast differences 
that make the claim of "unity" laughable, in the end.  

I am worried whenever I hear the term "feminist," and suppose that by 
proclaiming that title only serves to codify "women."  Haven't we gotten 
to the point of understanding "feminisms," rather?  Or simply, human rights?

I've kept very silent during this whole flamefest (don't say it's not).  
Everyone so defensive (I'm guilty) and allegedly "concerned" over how to 
speak in light of F.  Again, if Pynchon means anything to me, it's that 
we can (should?) simply speak, however.  If we create a shitstorm, we 
live with it.  In fact, it makes things interesting.

> 
> To my understanding, feminism began as a struggle for equal legal and
> political rights; it was a form of dissent.  Now the former dissenters,
> having gained their rightful voice now wish to take away the voice of a
> new group of dissenters.

Oh and we never squelch one another here, in the workplace, at home . . 
.  It's life.  I get angry when this simply fact gets dumped in favor of 
bashing F.

> 
> By simply refusing to discuss individual such as Paglia, rather than
> presenting a rebuttal, the feminists who do so are attempting to silence
> her.

Common.  Heard it.  How many times have you neglected to speak to an 
issue you felt was not worth mentioning, and if so, only worth a 
derogatory glance? Personally, I don't speak about her because sometimes 
she makes perfect sense, and at other times, she is raving.  How can I 
speak of Paglia in one frame?  Impossible.  And because she's all over 
the map, I don't care to try.  I *would* imagine it to be great to talk 
with her over a cup (pot?) of coffee.



I believe that these comments are primarily from Joe.


Bonnie L. Kyburz, Instructor
Department of English			(602) 965-7756 (office)
Arizona State University		kyburz at asu.edu
Tempe, AZ  85287-0302			*or* surfus at chuma.cas.usf.edu