Eroticized ideals of purity or virility have been used by states throughout history to create politically useful fantasies of citizenship and belonging. By creating an idealized image of what it means to be a citizen, states can reinforce certain values and behaviors that they want their citizens to adopt.
During World War II, the United States promoted its military men as masculine heroes who were willing to die for their country. This portrayal helped to build national pride and strengthen patriotism among Americans. Similarly, during the Cold War, Russia promoted images of strong, macho men who were ready to defend their homeland against Western imperialism. This created a sense of unity and solidarity within the Soviet Union.
Today, many countries continue to use eroticized ideals of purity or virility to construct political fantasies of citizenship and belonging.
China has long used images of sexy women in propaganda posters to promote nationalistic feelings among Chinese people. In South Korea, cosmetic surgery is often viewed as necessary for young women seeking employment because it represents beauty and social status. These types of messages help create a culture where appearance is valued above all else, which supports consumerism and materialism.
Eroticized ideals are also used to exclude certain groups from full participation in society.
In some Muslim-majority nations, homosexuality is considered taboo due to religious beliefs about purity and modesty. This creates a sense of exclusion and marginalization for LGBTQ+ individuals, who may feel like they cannot fully belong in these societies. Similarly, in many Latin American countries, there is an idealized image of what it means to be a man or woman that does not include queer identities. This can lead to discrimination and violence against those who do not fit into this mold.
States have historically used eroticized ideals of purity or virility to create politically useful fantasies of citizenship and belonging. By promoting certain values and behaviors through sexually charged imagery, they can shape public opinion and control how their citizens think about themselves and each other.
How do states use eroticized ideals of purity or virility to construct politically useful fantasies of citizenship and belonging?
States often promote purity as a symbolic representation of national identity. Purity is often associated with strength, morality, and resistance against foreign influences. This can lead to discourses that idealize certain groups within society while dehumanizing others. Similarly, masculinity is often seen as a marker of power and authority. The state may promote these ideas through propaganda, media, education systems, etc.