Online media and feminism: for better or for worse?

August 28th 2012

Phoebe Drake. 

Unchecked and varied, opinions often run viral on the Internet. From memes to blogs, it becomes evident that every person and their dog deem their words worthy of publication. And, although this seems like a scathing review of the use of online media, it is pertinent to note that some words, and ideas, however, are far more interesting than others, particularly when there is a clash of ideas or values.

This is clear when we look at the airing of the feminist (or even anti-feminist) viewpoint. The simple idea that, on facebook, images of breastfeeding women can be banned, whilst images taken of intoxicated women in typically demeaning positions are both considered hilarious and popular is contradictory to say the least.

It is consequently pertinent to ask- has online media influenced the feminist debate for better or for worse?

 Photo source: Meme from popular Feminist Ryan Gosling Tumblr

A Sense of Success

There are many well-known feminist blogs, and all seek to either challenge, inspire or entertain. An example of an entertaining blog (and one of my favourites), is Feminist Ryan Gosling, which depict images of the actor edited to include feminist quotes, all starting with ‘hey girl’. 

It is interesting to look at the success of these blogs. Mammamia, created by author Mia Freedman, connects to a broad audience, where 440 000 readers explore the blog each month. With material sourced from 100 contributors, the blog is an example of how to best engage and entertain whilst challenging browsers with a diversity of new stories each day. 

And whilst both of these blogs contribute to the feminist debate, neither actively seek to examine the role online media takes in the construction of discussion around feminist values.

This will be the aim of our feature, which makes it distinct from all other blogs. 

Moreover, with an increasingly connected generation of women, the market is there for the taking. 

We have seen, quite recently, a surge in interest around women's issues. The furore over comments  from both US Republican Todd Akin and British MP George Galloway have demonstrated the necessity of public discussion and debate. 

Consequently, the publication of content that looks at online media, yet provides both challenging and entertaining ideas will appeal to the generation of women looking to have their say.

A Call to Arms?

Tumblr Who Needs Feminism? asks us to consider the impact of feminism in our lives. Designed as a series of questions and answers from contributors, the blog depicts women holding signs that articulate the ways in which feminism has helped shape their experiences and what further needs to be done. 

Not only is it inspiring, but the design and layout is also effective. 

The use of images is effective as it portrays the diversity of women and experiences. The simple black on white is also appealing as it makes the written content highly accessible.  

Ultimately, a range of content will allow us to effectively cover a range of ideas. From polls to transcripts, images to comments, it is clear that an interactive website and a visually appealing website will maximise attention. 

The use of social media through twitter and facebook will help with the marketing of our blog, and consequently our ideas and contribution to the feminist debate. 

Images sourced from Free Digital Photos