The past few years have seen a rise in discussions of fatness and body positivity in the media. Whether it is Lizzo's pop anthems, or Lindy West's Shrill, positive representations of fatness, alongside body positivity more broadly has changed the discourse around the body. However, in spite of this, fat-phobia persists alongside the diet industry and beauty standards that tend to privilege thinness and whiteness. In this course, we will explore the representation of fatness in the media, grounding our discussion in feminist and anti-racist discussions on fatness and the fat liberation movement.
Course aim
The aim of this course is to be able to understand the politics of fatness in the media and to apply theoretical concepts learned on the course to your own examples.
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- This course is for beginners
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- Discuss key theoretical concepts around fatness and the media.
- Engage in key debates around representations of fatness in the media.
- Apply theoretical concepts to your own examples
- Construct arguments using evidence
What else do I need to know?
You don't need to bring anything, though examples of your own from the media are always helpful!
View full course information sheet
