Planning: Binary Structuralism

Binary Structuralism

What is Binary Structuralism?

Binary Structuralism (Opposition) is a representation which broken into two parts, one being correct (or ideal), and the other being incorrect or bad. e.g.-

Binary Oppositions

Adult - Child

Alien - Human

Deceitful - Honest

Dependant - Self Sufficient

Industrialisation - Medieval

Male - Female

Masculine - Feminine

Patriarchal - Matriarchal

Prisoner - Civilian

Organic - Technological

Violent - Harmless

Age:

• Youths are seen as troublemakers, violent , inexperienced and powerless. On the other hand, still clever. This theory is usually from the elderly's perspective.
• Professionals seen as the ones who hold power.
• Old Age is seen as ultra-conservative, old fashioned and out of touch with reality.

Youths

Professionals

Old Age

Race:

• EMG's (Ethnic Minority Group) portrayed as subservient in work roles.
• Often EMG's involved in drugs, violence and anti-social behaviour
• EMG's often self aware of the inability to climb social ladder.

Drugs

Violence

Anti-Social Behaviour

Class:

• Upper Class associations stick to their own socially
• Any interaction with lower classes are involved in employe/employee relationships
• Usually seen highly educated/albeit ignorant to the plights of the lower class

Gender:

• Objectification to be sexual objects for men
• Women often subservient to men, in both professional and personal relationship

Sexuality:

• Homosexuals often portrayed as ultra-feminine or ultra-masculine depending on the gender.
• Work roles are usually hospitality or industry based. (designer, bar club).
• Party-boy lifestyle prevalent (sex, drugs, partying)

Region:

• Regional representations are often ignorant to the ideals mainstream culture
• Regional representation often very heavily stereotyped