Filmmaking and science : who has the right?

Abstract

This paper examines the relative lack of female filmmakers and physical scientists through the lens of authority. I argue that authority comes from other's confidence in one's ability to be a scientist or filmmaker. This confidence is, in part, related to how well a person fits a stereotype and belongs to the social group deemed to own the knowledge needed. Due to their analogous histories of development, the stereotypes of a scientist and a filmmaker are remarkably similar and designed to exclude women. As a result, women are not granted authority in these fields as readily as men. Some women have found ways to co-opt authority and become successful. However, until they are deemed rightful owners of the knowledge of scientists and filmmakers, women will be underrepresented in these fields.