Pronouns used in Instructions
Dublin Core
Title
Pronouns used in Instructions
Subject
Observing the language used in game instructions of all three games
Description
These instructions are from Dr. Kildare, Ben Casey M.D. and the Barbie game respectively. One can notice that since the medical games involve a male doctor, the instructions use he/him pronouns for all the players, assuming they're male. Hence, making it a very masculine game. Even though, there's nothing masculine about being a doctor. Women are doctors too!
On the contrary, Mattel addresses the players regardless of their gender in second person (using you and your). This shows inclusivity and universality. Given that Barbie's are marketed to girls, naturally, they are played by girls.
On the contrary, Mattel addresses the players regardless of their gender in second person (using you and your). This shows inclusivity and universality. Given that Barbie's are marketed to girls, naturally, they are played by girls.
Creator
Ideal Toy Company; Transogram; Mattel
Date
1962; 1961; 1960
Contributor
The DMGHL at Washington University in St. Louis
Format
JPEG
Language
eng
Type
Still Image
Identifier
Instructions
Coverage
Game Design
Files
Collection
Citation
Ideal Toy Company; Transogram; Mattel, “Pronouns used in Instructions,” "No Boyfriend? Skip One Turn" Gender Representation in Board Games , accessed May 15, 2024, https://aayeshaejaz.omeka.net/items/show/5.