Redefining Aging: Susan J. Douglas on Feminism and Media Myths
It's time for us to start thinking about aging and older women as a resource rather than a burden. We need to start seeing aging as a time of growth, creativity, and new beginnings rather than decline and loss.
Ever wondered how older women are challenging the stereotypes and carving out new paths for well-being? In this episode of 'A Quest for Well-Being', Valeria Teles sits down with Susan J. Douglas, the acclaimed author of 'In Our Prime: How Older Women Are Reinventing the Road Ahead'. Susan is not just an author; she's a Catherine Neafie Kellogg Professor and Arthur F. Thurnau Professor of Communication and Media at the University of Michigan.
Her work delves into how media shapes our understanding of gender roles, self-esteem, and happiness. The conversation kicks off with Susan sharing her journey as a feminist media studies scholar. She dives into how media representations have evolved from the post-World War II era to today, and how these images have influenced generations of women.
Susan emphasizes the need for what she calls 'bridge feminism'—a movement that unites women of all ages to tackle the unfinished business of the women's movement. Susan's book, 'In Our Prime', serves as a manifesto against ageism and invisibility for older women. She argues that older women should be seen as valuable resources rather than burdens.
The discussion touches on how younger generations are advocating for better work-life balance and how older women can play a pivotal role in this shift. Valeria and Susan also explore the importance of self-care and spending quality time with loved ones as essential components of success and happiness. The episode wraps up with Susan sharing her definition of success: being happy in your life and relationships.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in aging, feminism, and media portrayals of women. It's a thought-provoking discussion that challenges age-old myths and offers empowering perspectives on what it means to grow older.