Jenkins reading responses for 6/16/09
1) A section in Jenkins article describes one of the reasons people become fans and exercise fandom qualities is because they feel lonely. "Fans characterize their entry into fandom in terms of a movement from social and cultural isolation...and as seekers of alternate pleasures within dominant media representations," (Jenkins, 88). If this argument states people want a sense of belonging in a culture that is segregated towards one idea, why then do many members shun those who are seen as outsiders towards their craft? If a person who is not that into Star Trek says something illiterate towards that community, why does the specific fan turn them away or turn them down? Is becoming a fan a way to escape isolation but at the price of separating you from the outside world?
2) Page 99 introduces a section on The Moral Economy of Fan Fiction. In the land of fiction writers have an endless supply of ideas and themes they can present in their texts, especially in Sci-Fi Star Trek. I understand writers must continue themes that are pleasing towards the viewers and cannot stray to far into the abyss, but what stops them from expressing economical themes which other media types are trying to turn? For instance, Captain Kirk always kisses the special guest star female. They swoon to his charm or charm him unconsciously. This aids to male dominance in the work place. Or the majority white male cast. Evil"Alien's" were sometimes given painted faces, or heavy make-up which would not be seen as Caucasian representation. Because this particular show is so influential and contains a high fan based community, what stops writers from demonstrating their own beliefs on how society should be represented?
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