H-Net Discussion Networks - BEAVIS AND BUTTHEAD: Subliminal Racism?

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From: Rollins@osuunx.ucc.okstate.edu
List Editor: Rollins@osuunx.ucc.okstate.edu
Editor's Subject: BEAVIS AND BUTTHEAD: Subliminal Racism?
Author's Subject: BEAVIS AND BUTTHEAD: Subliminal Racism?
Date Written: Fri, 8 Jul 1994 20:31:45 CDT
Date Posted: Sat, 08 Jul 1994 21:31:45 -0400

While Beavis and Butthead may not be overtly racist, I wonder if the musical
selections used on the show (which cover predominantly white groups) don't
reveal a more subtle bias.  Occasionally rap pieces are used; B & B
frequently
talk over them.  And they certainly don't receive the head-banging salute given
to Pantera and Gwar.  MTV seems to have segmented itself into rap, heavy metal,
and a grab bag called "Alternative Nation."  I suspect if you measured the
airtime of these three segments against the play-time on B & B you would
find a
clear pattern.  Also, I am also suspicious of the demographic make-up of B
& B's
high school, which seems suburban and predominately white.

Jeffrey Steele, Univ. of Wisconsin
jasteele@macc.wisc.edu

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