Veiled in Laughter: The Enduring Shadows of Sexist Humour

For centuries, our culture has been long moulded by the principles of patriarchal traditions which relegate women to roles of submission, inferiority and ornamental grace. The concept of sexism is also embedded deeply in our society which manifests in distinct forms, and exists even in language. Language reflects the value system, structure and attitude of the society. The language we speak hasn't escaped the deadly claws of patriarchal norms which reinforce gender bias within our daily expressions, jokes and slangs. Sexist language is not at all a recent concept. Ancient proverbs and idioms often portray women as the inferior section of the society who are unfair for positions of power. These ideas were supported by religious texts which tend to place women in positions subservient to men. With modernisation, these biases are yet to be eradicated. Sexism has evolved and still hides behind humourous jokes and slangs which we use  very casually and laugh them off. Day in and day out, sexist humour is still flaunting which are untouchable bubble for people because they are just perceived as "jokes". Delving deep into their meaning and origins, is it really a mere joke? When a phrase objectifies the female body, it doesn't actually remain restricted to a joke. It sends a message that the world where we reside is a place where women are second-rank citizens.

To understand the root causes of this culture of using casual sexist humour, we should examine the broader mechanisms of socialization that determine the way individuals perceive and engage with gendered expressions.
As discussed, the history of sexist attitude and language is an age old practice. The practice is neither accidental or inconsequential but it's a product of the patriarchal legacy. History has been largely under the direction of a male-dominated society. Humour, as a tool of social control, has allowed the privileged section to diminish the position of women. The influence of media and popular culture is perpetual. The entertainment industry has contributed to the widespread use of sexist slang terms, which originated from male perspectives. Thus, rendering such habitual and challenged expressions, paved the way for misogyny; the most lamentable disregard for the dignity of womanhood.

The family, being the primary unit of socialization, also influences in shaping a person's attitude towards sexual language. Children often learn the usage of sexist humour from parental conversation. The household, if following a traditional structure of stereotypic gender roles, without a failure internalizes the bias within the children. The manner in which parents either foster or rebuke the employment of sexist culture, it crucially influences the moral and intellectual formation of the society. Imparting lessons of gender equity can help in combating the chains of prejudice that have long bounded the fairer sex to a state of unreserved inferiority.
Education plays a vital role in formation of an individual's thought and character. The institution of instruction often becomes the unwitting agent in reinforcement of sexist attitude and bias. There are countless  examples of textbooks which contain gender based narratives. Casual sexist humour in classrooms validate such attitude among students. Introducing linguistic awareness events and progressive education promotes gender-sensitive language that can render itself of utmost utility. Schools which incorporate gender studies, and maintain regular discussions regarding the evils of sexist attitude and culture, contribute much to the formation of an equitable society.

Beyond family and education, the broader social environment such as peer influence is bound to bear a profound influence. Young people in schools, colleges and universities use sexist humour as a part of group bonding. Phrases that demean women are frequently used in casual conversations. Even if someone in the group rethinks before applying a sexist term, the fear of getting outcasted haunts them. This creates a hostile environment for the women and discourages then to speak against discrimination. The internet has largely amplified the spread of sexist memes and viral trends.

 In order to put an end to this, people should become aware of the meaning and terms of the slangs which they use without knowing, sometimes. Sexist jokes are not just harmless words. Change will be possible throughout conscious efforts in education, family upbringing and social interactions. If language is to be a true instrument of social progress, it must evolve beyond the shadows of gender based prejudice and discrimination. It is therefore the solemn duty of the conscious population who are aware about the sexist culture to promote gender equality among all. The progress of civilization demands change, so that it can cease to serve as a vessel for oppression and create a society where womanhood is given the respect it deserves, and both the sexes are instructed in the principles of justice and mutual respect for each other.

 

- Souparno Gupta, XI