As the saying goes, "well-behaved women rarely make history", a true enough statement. Yet, what has changed over the years is not the truth in that statement, but society's definition of behaved vs. not. I would argue that all one has to do is take a look at any of the major news channels reality TV star's latest fling or dirty dance to understand my meaning; the conclusion is not promising.
Am I against or even judgmental of some "celeb's" dirty dance in a bar or on TV? I personally could care less. But the question is not whether I care or not, but why does society make it headline news. Simply put, we are just as responsible as the news outlets that make these stories headline news.
Benjamin Franklin proves to us that this is not something new. Although historians would argue Franklin's work had a purpose. Often to change the status quo of society and perhaps at times for the similar purpose of editors today, to obtain readership of the publication. Yet, not limited to that sole reason.
My position is the level and frequency of celeb "news" infiltrating our culture is alarming. Kim Kardashian wed, divorced, and then had a baby. Oh yes, she is also back in shape. That is our news. You know, the important stuff. I have to say, "Are you kidding me." But what about the women such as the 20th-century's Alice Paul, who practiced civil disobedience on a national scale for women's equality, frequently at her own personal expense. Look her up, I would suggest.
We have many women as well as men in our society continuing to make costly but admirable sacrifices for the greater good. Why do we forego their story for Justin Bieber's latest reunion with Selena Gomez? By the way, that is one of the most recent headlines on International Business Times. Need I say more?
