Maybe ignorance isn't bliss

As I sit down to write my final thoughts for this class, I can't help but be a bit saddened. I really enjoyed this class because it made me notice things that I hadn't even noticed before. Things that had just seemed so natural before, really are social constructs. Prior to this class, I was aware of some things - but for the most part I thought sexism was a thing of the past.

It almost scared me that I had been so naive. This class has made me a critical thinker. Before I was a critical thinker when it came to academia - questioning everything I was taught in school and read in books, websites, etc. - but now, I question what I'm taught in real life. This is a good skill that I'm really glad I picked up.

However, I now also see when my friends do things because of social constructs. It frustrates me how easily they are manipulated by popular culture, but I know that I was the same way. Even now, I'm sure there are forces at work on me that I remain completely unaware of.

I guess the best thing you can do is know that at the bottom of your heart you are happy with the choices you make. So, I like to wear dresses - maybe that's because society pressured me into it and maybe it's just because I like spinning around and having the skirt circle me. Either way, I am content with my decision to wear them. As long as you can understand the forces at work around you and are able to have your own reasons for making a decision, I think that's the best you can do for now.

I did appreciate this class for opening my eyes to the pressures I had previously succumbed to. I try to be much more aware now. I thought I was living happily before, but now that I understand why I may be extra self-conscious or why my mom really likes to buy me pink clothes, I am even more satisfied. Maybe it's better to understand the bigger picture and how that effects your life - maybe ignorance isn't bliss.