Intelligence Squared Misogyny and the Middle-Aged Woman, with Victoria Smith, Hadley Freeman and Sonia Sodha, Part One
Mar 24, 2024
Victoria Smith, writer and author of 'Hags: The Demonization of Middle-Aged Women,' joins fellow writers Sonia Sodha and Hadley Freeman for a thought-provoking discussion. They tackle why society harbors animosity against middle-aged women, examining the 'Karen' meme and its implications. The trio explores the historical prejudice faced by older women, scrutinizing the stereotypes in media and culture. They address how age can empower women to challenge societal norms and advocate for visibility in feminism, making a powerful case for solidarity among all women.
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Defining "Hag"
- A "hag" is a derogatory term for an older woman, often associated with power and fear.
- It reflects the misrepresentation and dislike of middle-aged women in society.
The "Karen" Phenomenon
- Hadley Freeman realized the extent of negativity towards middle-aged women through the "Karen" meme.
- Writing about the term's ageist and sexist nature resulted in surprising backlash.
The "Karen" Stereotype and Race
- The "Karen" stereotype, often directed at white women, is used to dismiss complaints and silence women's voices.
- This narrative implies that white women endanger black men by speaking up, contributing to a climate of fear and distrust.
