[PublicAnimalNo9]

holy shit lady, smoke a joint a re-fucking-lax.

[Brenda]

You know, sometimes, kidsshows are just what it is. I don't really think my kids noticed the conservative whatever-it-was-she-concluded, or had their brains washed by that, just like they never had the idea Tinky Winky (teletubbies...) was gay. Why? BECAUSE THEY DIDNT EVEN KNOW WHAT IT IS!!!

Good grief, what a non-issue...

[Zipperfish]

Well, if the demographic for post-secondary students wasn't currently headed for 60% girls / 40% boys, she might have a point. As it is, boys are in trouble at school because they are treated like dysfunctional girls.

I can see how the hierarchical structure of Thomas's world might not appeal to your stereotypical girl, but the boys sure seem to like it. Also, Thomas the Tank Engine was originally written in the 30s by a British pastor, I believe, so it reflects that societal mode.

The enduring mythology of the US is that of the Vindicated Rebel--the guy who breaks all the rules for the right reasons and is rewarded in the end. The British ethic, not surprisingly, is much more class oriented--here's your place on the grand scheme of things, respect your elders, duty is a virtue. All that stuff.

The problem is more likely that Ms. Wilton sees the world through the prism of gender dynamics. She may be incapable of perceiving Thomas any other way.

I think it's a great show. But then, I'm British by heritage.

***edited for an atrocious number of spelling errors.

[BartSimpson]

Zipperfish Zipperfish:

AS it is, boys are in trouble at school because they are treated like dysfunctional girls.

Outstanding comment.