Looking Philosophical: Stuff, Stereotypes, and Self‐Presentation

Hypatia 30 (4):692-707 (2015)
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Abstract

Self-presentation is a complex phenomenon through which individuals present themselves in performance of social roles. The success of such performances rests not just on how well a performer fulfills expectations regarding the role she would play, but on whether observers find her convincing. I focus on how self-presentation entails making use of material environment and objects: One may “dress for the part” and employ props that suit a desired role. However, regardless of dress or props, one can nonetheless fail to “look the part” owing to expectations informed by biases patterned along commonplace social stereotypes. Using the social role of philosopher as my example, I analyze how the stereotype attached to this role carries implications for how demographically under-represented philosophers may self-present, specifically with regard to dress and decoration. I look, in particular, to the alienation from one's material environment that may follow on the frustration of self-presentation through bias. One pernicious effect of bias, I argue, is the power it has to deform and distort its target's relation to her physical setting and objects. Where comfort and ease in one's material environment can be a significant ethico-aesthetic good, bias can inhibit access to, and enjoyment of, this good

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Amy Olberding
University of Oklahoma

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References found in this work

How is this Paper Philosophy?Kristie Dotson - 2012 - Comparative Philosophy 3 (1):3-29.
Well, yes and no: A reply to Priest.Kristie Dotson - 2012 - Comparative Philosophy 3 (2):10-15.
Fashion and Sexual Identity, or Why Recognition Matters".Samantha Brennan - 2011 - In Fritz Allhoff, Jessica Wolfendale & Jeanette Kennett (eds.), Fashion - Philosophy for Everyone: Thinking with Style. Wiley. pp. 120--134.

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