This was contrasted by the view that gender differences were not constructed but was in fact innate and part of the natural order to things. They were also linked to religious views and conceptions. This view however found it difficult to account for variations in gender preferences and homosexuality.
What became clear from the interviews was that these two interviewees represent very different views of gender that are possibly reflected in the larger society. They were however similar in some respects; for instance they both were subject to certain gender stereotypes. This also suggests that the meaning of gender is not clear and that it is obscured by stereotypes in the media and cultural views and ideas.
While the interviews provide insight they also raised a great number of questions. For example, to what extent is gender a social construction and to what extent is it genetic or innate; are all gender characteristics only the result of a learning process in society; to what extent is the media a part of the problem and to what extent does it serve to from our ideas and notions of gender and sexuality. These are issues that provide as great deal of food for thought. These interviews have certainly opened my eyes to a plethora...
Retrieved 30 October, 2009, from http://employees.oneonta.edu/farberas/ARTH/ARTH200/gender.html
Appendix: Interview questionnaire
1. What in your view the meaning of gender?
2. What do you think is the main difference between male and female?
3. What are the main characteristics as you see it of being male and female?
4. Do you think that gender is genetic or social in origin?
5. To what extent do you think that gender differences are socially constructed or set by the society in which you live?
6. What is your view of sexual preferences and homosexuality? How does this fit into your view of gender differences?
7. Describe your view of the roles that are appropriate to each gender. Should there be separate roles for each gender?
8. How do you account for difference in gender roles in different societies?
9. What do you understand by gender stereotypes?
10. What role do the media play in gender roles and differences?
11. What other aspects of gender interest you?
