Ideology and gender essentialism: Rethinking attitudes toward the movie Barbie beyond simple gender perspectives.

What is it about?

Focusing on the movie Barbie within the Chinese context, this study analyzes the relationship among ideologies and gender essentialism (GE) and Chinese audiences’ attitudes toward feminism. By moving beyond traditional gender, cultural, and political frameworks, this study explores how Social dominance orientation, right-wing authoritarianism, and GE are interconnected. The results suggest that antagonism toward feminism on Chinese social media not only has a significant connection with gender views but can also be influenced by deeper cognitive and psychological factors. Individuals with higher levels of Social dominance orientation and right-wing authoritarianism are more likely to endorse GE, which is, in turn, associated with opposition to feminism.

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Why is it important?

Antagonism between men and women on Chinese social media is influenced not only by gender views but also by deeper psychological and ideological factors. These findings can inform policies and educational programs aimed at reducing gender bias and fostering constructive dialogue between genders in online spaces.