Jean Kilbourne Argument Analysis
Jean Kilbourne argues that “sex in advertising is pornographic because it dehumanizes and objectifies people, especially women” (417), shaping behaviors and identities for both sexes. For this paper, construct an account of Kilbourne’s argument. In your paper, explain Kilbourne’s opening claim: “Sex in advertising is more about disconnection and distance than connection and closeness” (417). Discuss how Kilbourne organizes the piece and how the structure influences the message of the text. Conclude your paper with a statement of significance. Why is this text significant?
Evaluation Criteria
Successful papers will
1. introduce the topic, the paper’s project, and give some indication how the paper will proceed;
2. describe the author’s project and give an account of the author’s argument;
3. describe how Kilbourne organizes her text and how that influences what she has to say;
4. show the various aspects of the problem Kilbourne presents;
5. comment on how this article is significant–what difference it might make to readers;
6. use correct citation and format;
7. be thoroughly edited so that sentences are readable and appropriate for an academic paper.
Solution Preview
Advertisements have changed their intentions when it comes to the use of the female image in communicating the main message of the commercial. Jean Kilbourne is a recognized author, filmmaker and above all a scholar who stated that advertisers are objectifying women by sexualizing them which has a certain impact towards all genders in the society. She starts by saying, “Sex in advertising is more about disconnection and distance than connection and closeness” (Kilbourne, 2012). The media influence towards people’s lives is underrated especially when it comes to the promotions aired after every few minutes. Most individuals claim that these advertisements do not have any connection to the way they view certain things forgetting the shaping power of any form of media and especially TV where people spend most of their time.
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