After the end of my first relationship, I couldn't escape the feeling that the relationship was a fluke. Or, rather, that my ex's attraction to me was solely based on societal standards of desirability. This realization led me to delve deeper into the concept of desirability politics and its influence on our personal lives and the larger political landscape.
Part of the reason, to be honest, is that I'm a libertarian, and libertarian views have almost no influence in the world of politics. Desirability politics often perpetuates certain societal standards that exclude those who do not fit the mold of mainstream desirability. This exclusion extends to political ideologies as well.
What makes his journey more difficult is the internalized white gaze he has projected onto himself and others around him, leading him to question his own desirability in the context of politics. The intersection of race and desirability politics can create complex dynamics that hinder meaningful representation and engagement in political discourse.
As I reflected on my own relationship to racial fetishization, I discovered that it was overwhelmingly forged through ambiguity: ambiguous understandings of cultural backgrounds, stereotypes, and expectations. These factors contribute to the objectification of individuals based on their desirability within certain racial categories.
Content warning: disordered eating, racism, fatphobia. My waiting room and office space communicate everything I want patients to know: that their bodies are valued and respected, regardless of societal standards of desirability. Desirability politics can manifest in harmful ways, perpetuating harmful beauty ideals and reinforcing discriminatory practices.
Beyond what is described in this review of the film, the graphic novel shows more of Miko's story — and although she speaks out and is engaged in politics, her desirability is often called into question. This highlights the challenges faced by hyper visible women in navigating the intersection of desirability and political engagement.
Margot Robbie's desirability has been called into question, sparking a conversation about hyper visible women and the impact of societal desirability standards. This brings to light the unequal power dynamics and objectification faced by women in the public eye, affecting their ability to engage in politics on an equal footing.
The subjugation of femme Black bodies to the tyrannical gaze of white supremacy remains prevalent today. Desirability politics plays a significant role in perpetuating these harmful power dynamics, further marginalizing and silencing Black women in political spaces.
What are desirability politics? Put simply, the politics of desirability dictate that who we find attractive is largely influenced by culture, societal norms, and power structures. This, in turn, shapes our perceptions of ourselves and others, impacting our interactions and engagement in political arenas.
Desirability politics has far-reaching implications on representation and inclusivity in politics. By challenging narrow standards of desirability, we can foster a more inclusive political environment where diverse voices are heard and valued.
As we strive for inclusive politics, it is crucial to recognize the intersectionality of desirability politics and other forms of oppression. By dismantling societal standards that perpetuate discrimination, we can work towards a more equitable political landscape.
Empowerment lies in embracing diverse forms of desirability and challenging the dominant narratives that exclude and marginalize. By amplifying voices and creating space for those traditionally deemed less desirable, we can reshape the political landscape to be more reflective of the diverse communities it serves.
Self-perception plays a significant role in desirability politics, and it is essential to cultivate a sense of self-worth beyond external validation. By recognizing our inherent value and challenging societal beauty ideals, we can reclaim agency and engage in politics from a place of empowerment.
In conclusion, desirability politics permeates our personal lives and influences our engagement in politics. By questioning and challenging the existing power dynamics, we can create a more inclusive political landscape that values and uplifts all individuals, regardless of societal standards of desirability.
