In the world of Keeping up with the Kardashians, drama is expected. In one episode you witness Kim losing her precious jewellery and crying hysterically over it. In another the audience witnesses the transitioning of former Olympic athlete Caitlyn Jenner. So who can really keep up with the Kardashians?! However, in the episode two Sundays ago, there was one thing we should be keeping up with: the ongoing problem of slut shaming.
In the episode, Scott Disick can be seen waking up after a heavy night of drinking with a female companion in his room (wink, wink). All in reaction to Scott witnessing Kourtney, his ex-girlfriend, dating again after their difficult breakup. However, it was Kim Kardashian’s reaction which is worthy of discussion. She walked into the room and discovered the girl in Scott’s bathroom, not a great thing to walk in on but definitely not something that requires a lot of discussion. But Kim proceeded to call her a “whore” after discovering her. This episode draws out attention to the problem of slut-shaming.
Just because this woman was with Scott Disick does not mean she is any less of a human who should be considered a whore in any scenario. She was simply doing what she wanted to do: a power that all women possess. While I can understand that Kim was upset at discovering her sister’s ex-boyfriend with another woman. This should mean that Scott should be getting the blame.
Slut shaming is a constant problem in today’s society, and it isn’t getting better through popular culture. Keeping up with the Kardashians has a massive following and should be using its platform to break down stereotypes that are infecting society. However, the show, along with other forms of popular culture, are perpetuating the image of the slut. Using the term whore and likening this image with a woman who was carrying out an act that did not harm or hurt anyone else, is solidifying the image of the slut in a negative light.
Keeping up with Kardashians has a public platform to tackle issues and displace stereotypes plaguing society. Shows like Keeping with the Kardashians are part of popular culture which has a duty to break down social stereotypes and negative connotations to female gender. They need to start using this power for good and be confronted when dealing with negative topics.
Edited by Nicole Swain
Sources:
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https://yesmovies.to/movie/keeping-up-with-the-kardashians-season-9-1488…