An Exploration into the Objectification of Self in Female Hip-Hop Culture as a Form of Misogyny or Empowerment.

Abstract

This research paper explores whether the presentation of self in female hip- hop culture is a form of objectification or misogyny in the eyes of the viewer, using a Black feminist conceptual framework. While there is an existing body of research surrounding the objectification of women in mainstream media, less academic attention has been given to the objectification of Black women’s sexuality. This paper explores the performativity of Black female hip-hop artists to understand the effects upon audience perceptions of Black womanhood. This study argues the objectification of self in female hip-hop culture is misogynistic in relation to deeper societal and cultural issues faced by Black women historically - grounded in racism. This study contributes to gaining profound insight into what shapes and influences perceptions and expands our understanding of race and the ways in which racism is perpetuated in popular culture.