Etcetera #14: The Problem with Power (Part 2)

While the recent Harvey Weinstein scandal has highlighted the terrible problem of sexual harassment and assault, it's also shone a spotlight on a broader topic: the misuse of power.

In Part One of a short series on this topic, we looked at the recent sexual allegations in light of the broader dynamics of how power is given, gained, used and misused in American culture. In what ways does this misuse of power, particularly in male/female interactions, manifest in more ordinary moments before it crosses the line and garners headlines? The Harvey Weinstein's of the world were not created in a moment; what does the process look like that enables or even encourages those in power to harass and assault?

In Part Two, we are focusing more directly on what can be done about it. Where do we go from here? What kind of dynamics must we address in homes, schools, entertainment, and social institutions? Are there things about which both men and women must be more aware if we are to change our culture?

You can find the podcast on Soundcloud here, and you can visit our Facebook page as well where we continue a discussion and occasionally post additional links to related stories.

This topic is minefield; we are doing our best to tiptoe carefully as we walk toward truth. It is likely that you will nod your head at times in agreement - and perhaps equally likely that you will do the opposite at times as well. We welcome feedback on this website and on our Facebook page! Our intent is addressing these topics is not to suggest we have finished the discussion; our goal is to pursue truth, and that is best done in community - which in this case includes you!

LINKS RELATED TO THE SHOW


Men, Women, And The Line Between Objectification and Empowerment
The Guys’ Guide to Seeing Women, Not Objects
The Double Standard: How Women Contribute To Their Own Objectification
7 Reasons So Many Guys Don’t Understand Sexual Consent
20 Highly Sexist Print Ads That Objectify Women
Training men and boys to honor women in the age of #MeToo
How Dads Can Teach Sons to Respect Women
Teaching our Boys to Respect Women
How do you teach boys to be men who respect women?
Act Like Men, part 3: Men Treat Women with Respect




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