Look Ma! I'm Using Both Hands!

Is it true that the computer is helping society ride toward a better acceptance of the feminine? Are the increased use of computer graphics contributing to the cause? Can using both hands on the keyboard help us balance our energy?

I know this sounds far out but a friend put forward these concepts recommending that I read "The Alphabet Versus the Goddess" by Leonard Shain. The book is a historical tomb but it certainly gave me something to think about!

The author's basic premise is that the advent of the alphabet led to an over-emphasis on masculine left-brain thinking to the detriment of feminine right-brain thinking.

With this, the feminine archetype was diminished, ultimately leading to a loss of respect and admiration for women. Meanwhile all things masculine grew in status and importance, becoming the "correct" way to do things.

The struggle comes from the differences between word and image and the way we process each in our brain. The left brain is logical. It uses analysis, numbers and writing to separate and categorize information. The right brain is abstract and holistic, using visual images to create a whole, integrated picture.

Each is different and both make important contributions but the male brain has dominated since we introduced the alphabet. Thus, to be considered a leader, women have to demonstrate left-brain attributes. But, according to Shlain, this could be changing as our society evolves.

Photography, TV, film, and especially computer graphics have put traditional literacy under siege. This is diminishing the dominance of masculine thinking and the revived interest in images is stimulating the acceptance of the feminine.

Additionally, as we use both hands to form words on the keyboard, we are breaking down the traditional left-brain to right-hand process of writing. We are using both sides of our brains to express ourselves which creates balance. And, when we are balancing the masculine and feminine sides of our brains, we are balancing our masculine and feminine energy.

Do you think that's why I enjoy doing my blogs on my Blackberry?  

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Comments

[Kay Lorraine]

I admit that I have not read Leonard Shain's book, but it appears that his theories (at least as they pertain to this blog post) rely on men being left-brainers and women being right-brainers.

This theory sure goes to hell in a handbasket in our house. My husband is a creative director who works in design aesthetics, copywriting and intuitive marketing policies.

I, on the other hand, am the more objective, rational one in the family. (He would disagree, but then he would be wrong.....again....). I handle the money, I take care of his business travel details, I type with two hands, whereas he uses a mysterious system that involves two fingers and the occasional thumb. He's really fast at it, too.

I have no clue as to how to arrange the furniture. He's really good at that. On the other hand, I actually know where things are kept and can find the glue gun or the extra AAA batteries.

I don't have a blackberry. I think it would probably make me nuts. I couldn't figure out how to get both hands on the keyboard. :)

It takes all kinds......

Kay Lorraine
Honolulu, Hawaii
http://BizBitchBlog.blogspot.com

[Betty-Ann Heggie]

Yes, there are exceptions to the rule. On average men are taller than women but there are still some women who are taller than most men. It sounds to me like you are both pretty balanced. A man who is a creative director is already working out of both sides of his brain as are you, a creative writer who can handle all those specific tasks. I'd say that you are both displaying good Gender Physics and its lovely that you found each other. The bigger issue is in society which puts more value on those tasks administered by men and this book helped explain how that evolved. But I know I take this all too seriuosly and you certainly gave me a chuckle- thanks for that and for sharing your personal experience.

[coach sale]

We’re conditioned to think that our lives revolve around great moments. But great moments often catch us unaware - beautifully wrapped in what others may consider a small one.

[Betty-Ann Heggie]

Yes- its the same theory as using baby steps to make progress- rather than believing that we have to accomplish the big, hairy audacious goal (which most often overwhelms us and impedes our results), we are better to focus on small, incremental steps. Tiny successes when taken together add up to big accomplishments! So it is with small moments that take your breath away- its a wonderful measurement of life!