I am going to approach this essay from an objective point of view. The fact of the matter is, and the basis of this essay, there are perpetuating stereotypes of black men. It is not something that I support or have any sort of investment in. That being said, I have to recognize MTV’s profitability of such an incorporation into their show.
This stereotype is base wholly in controversy and emotion. One way or another, the viewers have a considerable response to what is being edited into each episode. Whatever your stance on the situation, you will react. Whether it be in disgust by the completely racist allusions, or a reaction of complete agreement. It is sad that some Black males will be misjudged and mistreated based on these notions that MTV is cementing into our minds.
A few of the traits stereotyped by MTV are the tendencies to violence and sexual aggression. There were multiple examples when the black male, Syrus or either of the Davids, would participate in one night stands or make lewd gestures. Syrus was evening quoted saying, “women are like potato chips… can’t just have one” (pg 223). There were many instances when the “European white female” cast members felt threatened, physically, by the irate black male. As if they expected to be abused because he was a black male against a white female. This wasn’t just in the event of a heat confrontation either. The women felt that the black male character could, and would, at any time explode.
It is a travesty, the injustice that MTV has committed toward the black male population. However, there won’t likely be anything to change it short of cancelling the show. It is up to the viewers to remain open minded and remain aware of the fact that it IS just television.
discussion questions
Are black males the only stereotyped race in television?
Are there equally strong stereotypes about the white male, mid 20's, that can be derived from this show?
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