Comments on: “I’m Not a Prude, But…”: Why We Can’t Let Ourselves Become Culture Sheep

By: Amy Jussel, Shaping Youth

Amy Jussel, Shaping Youth — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 20:25:21 +0000

I’m just getting back from ‘spring break unplugged’ so need to update a ‘part two of this post I wrote called “Deconstructing Gaga: Through the Lens of 100 Youth” http://www.shapingyouth.org/?p=10482 —fyi—You all might be interested to hear what teens themselves have to say…

I think it’s only fair that we ALL swallow a great big gulp of awareness (& media literacy) about ambient noise out there, and how performance art/satire/ entertainment is not exactly ‘translating’ to younger kids…

That said, I also DO like the post on Rachel Simmons’ blog written by a teen (Lilly) for a diff. perspective re: why Gaga could even be considered a “role model to girls”—(cough, cough, ahem; can’t say I’m in agreement based on several of Gaga’s antics/attitudes conveyed but it’s a good argument/positioning and well written, so worth reading…)

Ah, the fame monster…There are SO many layers and responsibilities inextricably entwined to how our culture is Shaping Youth. Complex, n’est ce pas?

By: Adelaide Dupont

Adelaide Dupont — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 07:00:10 +0000

Halloween is indeed a time of imagination.

Seems like Patrick has his head on his shoulders.

By: Amy Jussel, Shaping Youth

Amy Jussel, Shaping Youth — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 04:45:52 +0000

Actually, Natalia, I think you’re already doing it. Thinking critically. Considering and weighing. Questioning and pondering. No one is trying to tell anyone HOW to think, but rather to question the cues, messages and subtext of what’s being put out there for profit.

Nothing wrong with a great beat…sheesh, think of all those 60s counterculture lyrics and the boomers who survived ‘em, (if parents wanna yell too loud)…I’m just saying that the more we spread the word and ‘question authority’ (meaning the mass media, recording giants, music biz) to ask WHO this is really serving, and WHY we’re allowing ourselves to be narrowcast and pigeon-holed with blatant objectification, the quicker we’ll begin to see young girls champion change…Why can’t Lady GaGa produce music w/a great beat sans the misogyny and boy toy/puppetry parlance?

Action steps? Hmn…I’d invite ALL girls (and women, but girls get to VOTE for the name of the new movement!) to visit the HGHW.org site where a backlash is brewing re: the over the top/so sexy so soon/early sexualization cues damaging wee ones, tweens/teens (& frankly, devolving humanity in general) The APA has offered quantifiable proof of the harm, now it’s time responsibility and accountability come into play. Check it out…it’s gonna be fun!

By: Natalia Ballantyne

Natalia Ballantyne — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 02:51:00 +0000

Soooooo…what if I listen to Lady Gaga’s music, I understand that some of the lyrics are pretty messed up, but I still like it anyways? I can’t help it! It DOES have a great beat and that is not a stupid reason to like music. Don’t you just want to DANCE? I don’t support violence against women or anybody, nor do I “bluff with my muff” but I love love love the songs. Am I supposed to just stop listening in protest? I mean, what are we actually supposed to DO?!