Alright, I do admit that the article's title did get my attention. First question: I knew what this meant (or at least had an idea of it), but what about men? This took me to some thoughts about aging and gender in a shared context. Older men are "sophisticated" and "accomplished", but older women are not? I know that this goes much deeper into issues of gender and how it relates to power in our society. Perhaps the root of this discourse can be found in the lingering sentiment that a woman is only as valuable as she appears, going back to when women were considered more like possessions than people.
Yes, I suppose you could say "well, look at Demi Moore! She's in a relationship with a younger man, so it's not just the 'older man, younger woman' stereotype anymore." I would agree that she sets a different standard for the relationship part of things; HOWEVER, do you think Demi looks her age? How does her youthful appearance affect the way society perceives her relationship with a younger man? What about someone like Diane Keaton? THAT is what I envision when I think of aging gracefully. If you have not seen "Something's Gotta Give", I really recommend it. Diane sets a new standard for older women and beauty, and does not seem to fall into some of the same traps that other aging actresses have in regard to the quest for a youthful look. Another thought: sex sells (sells movies, merchandise, clothing, cars...), and do you think of adults in later life even as sexual beings at all?
See you all tomorrow,
Megan
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