Reference no: EM133414892

Question: In their essays, both authors examine how "our self-centered reality" is "unsatisfactory and untenable" (Thurman 443). In her book, Perfect Me, the philosopher Heather Widdows argues that for women, "failing to meet the beauty standard is framed as... 'a failure of the self'" (Tolentino 79). Thurman and Tolentino would agree that "your 'self' is always busy terrorizing you" (Thurman 435).

Drawing specific idea rich passages from both texts, compose an original argument that responds to the following prompt:

Consider how "life under accelerated capitalism" encourages women to "optimize" their lives (Tolentino 66). Think about how Thurman's ideas would work with Tolentino's argument against women trying to "become that idealized self...through relentless self-improvement" (Tolentino 81). Using the ideas and arguments of both authors, discuss specific ways in which women (and men) could use Thurman's ideas about "selflessness" as a form of resistance against the "peculiar fact that beauty requirements have escalated as women's subjugation has decreased" (Tolentino 78).