Prior Research on SATC Summary

The article, "Feminism without Feminists: Prior Research on SATC," looks into the deeper aspects of the popular show, Sex and the City. This article explains how the show is open to the subjects the media and society do not typically discuss. One of the aspects of this show which differentiates it among other shows is how it encourages, "frank talk about female sexuality"(Kim 8). Because this show is so open to this subject, many different audience members indulge in it because it relatable as well as entertaining.

One of the main topics discussed within this article is how SATC does not follow traditional values; female friendship is at the core of this show. This female dynamic replaces the male figure as the dominant role. The article states,"this elective family structure is one that gay men and lesbians have relied on for generations- a self-selected family that willingly meets its members’ needs" (Kim 8).  The alternative dialogues and scenes which relate to different gender roles are not often seen in the media, which is why SATC appeals to many different audiences rather than just single women. Not only this, but the "widening array of roles for women and the inclusion of gay men" (Kim 10) is what also appeals to the diverse audience of SATC.

Even so, SATC presents "bisexual, lesbian, and gay characters... in ways that marginalize their existence and reify the dominance of heterosexuality" (Kim 12). The female character's race and class position is exemplified through their personalty, style, and voice in this show. Their race and class enables them to be seen as prioritized and privileged. These females are not afraid to express their viewpoints which is why hegemonic feminism is a dominant theme as well.

The article captures how this show is viewed as "radical" for the topics discussed, including abortion. These topics "privilege issues important to women" (Kim 8). The media often attaches female characters in shows to motherhood because of society's expectations and beliefs. In SATC, however, Miranda's pregnancy was viewed completely opposite. Her pregnancy lead to a realistic viewpoint which "impinged on Miranda’s career, time with friends, her body, and her sex life" (Kim 10). In today's society, abortion is unethical; SATC provides different values and a different viewpoint with how a single woman's mind and life is. This show reflects upon women who have other priorities to keep in mind other than reproducing.

This article also discusses how SATC's "luxury and consumerist pleasures"(Kim 13) are highlighted within the series. The single life of these females and their roles draws away attention from the lives of other single women. While this show offers a different angle to reality, the author's purpose in writing this article is an attempt to determine whether viewers "buy into the hegemonic narratives about race, class, gender, and sexuality embedded in SATC, or whether they produce negotiated or oppositional readings"(Kim 13).