Episode 314: What a Tangled Sociocultural Web We Weave with Tressie McMillan Cottom

Bama Rush

Doree Shafrir and Elise Cottom explore the cultural phenomenon of Bama Rush, highlighting its impact on societal norms and the portrayal of women. Elise explains that Bama Rush is akin to a "trad wife" culture, where young women willingly participate in a system that emphasizes traditional gender roles and proximity to power 1. This phenomenon reflects broader societal trends, where women are judged based on their adherence to specific beauty and behavioral standards.

Bama Rush is like, trad wives, is like all of the women on the dating shows. Yes. It's about the look of a particular kind of GoP wife.

--- Elise Cottom

The discussion also touches on the rewards these women perceive, which often involve gaining access to elite social circles and potential future benefits 1.

   

Social Media

Social media's role in shaping cultural identities is profound, as Elise Cottom notes, with platforms acting as modern finishing schools for societal access. She highlights how social media rewards mirror those of past generations, emphasizing the importance of family background and marital connections 2. The conversation reveals how these platforms perpetuate traditional power structures, often leaving individuals questioning their participation in such dynamics.

I'm willing to, you know, stand in front of a phone and, you know, evaluate the, you know, my style for millions of people as being my self worth.

--- Elise Cottom

Elise's reflections on her podcasting journey with Roxane Gay further underscore the need for diverse voices in media, particularly from women and marginalized groups 3.

   

Reality TV

Reality TV's evolution is dissected by Elise Cottom, who examines how it reflects and shapes societal expectations. She discusses the pressure on women to maintain youthful appearances and the power dynamics at play, noting that these shows often highlight regimentation and intervention in women's lives 4. The "bad wig theory" is introduced as a critique of beauty standards and racial dynamics, where exaggerated performances are necessary for visibility and acceptance.

It's about regimentation, your body, and it's really about a lot of intervention, especially as you get older.

--- Elise Cottom

This theory humorously suggests that wearing a "bad wig" can lead to a "soft life" of privilege, illustrating how beauty rituals are intertwined with social status 5.