Let’s face it: the Madonna-whore dichotomy is anachronistic. However, it remains overwhelmingly prevalent in contemporary society; the idealization of chaste women and the consequential demonization of promiscuous women is a phenomenon that transcends all sociocultural barriers. Conversely, male promiscuity is perceived as intrinsic to masculinity, as sex is equated to conquest, and thus intercourse becomes an essential medium for the assertion of one’s manhood. Upon examination of societal norms regarding sexual activity and discrepancies in expectations for men and women, it is overwhelmingly clear that the systematic villainization of promiscuous women serves an integral role in the perpetuation of the disparities between the genders, as it actively denies women agency and ascendancy over their bodies.
“Slut-shaming” is not only a fun and alliterative term; it assigns nomenclature to a phenomenon that is so normalized that it often goes unnamed. Dispelling the stigmata that are associated with female promiscuity and creating a dialogue on the subject may prompt the dismantling of this disconcerting paradigm. However, this requires a significant shift in consciousness, as well as the posing of potentially disquieting questions. Why do we vilify women who are overt in their enjoyment of sex? Why is celibacy considered intrinsic to conventional femininity? Why do we denigrate and devalue women who have extensive sexual histories, or who have a multiplicity of sexual partners? The deprecation of women who exercise bodily sovereignty is so entrenched in our minds that we rarely consciously consider these questions and truly contemplate the implications of their answers. However, as we analyze the systematic marginalization of promiscuous women, a degree of transparency emerges; this paradigm serves to actively augment gender inequality and inhibit female sexual self-determination.
While this information may elicit anything from apathetic yawns to adamant refutations, ideally there will be some effort to challenge this thought pattern and the ills associated with it within the IHS community. High school students tend to be particularly disparaging and virulent when it comes to female promiscuity. If we can celebrate all women, rather than demeaning some for behavior that is perceived as licentious, and if we can actively affirm a woman’s right to partake in and enjoy sex, we will make a monumental leap towards gender equality. Thus, we should refrain from critical comments regarding the sexual history of our female peers, and remain respectful of bodily sovereignty, rather than degrading women who choose to have sex.
NOTE: This also applies to women who choose not to have sex, or who do not enjoy sex, as they are also entitled to their sexual preferences.