As we navigate the complexities of modern life, it's easy to get caught up in our own biases and assumptions about what constitutes "good" television. But sometimes, taking a step back and rewatching a classic sitcom from the 1990s can offer us a fresh perspective on issues that are still relevant today.
In this blog post, we'll explore 10 unconventional lessons that can be learned by watching a 90s sitcom with modern eyes. From tackling sensitive topics like racism and sexism to revealing insights into human relationships and personal growth, these shows may have been created decades ago, but their lessons remain eerily relevant in today's world.
1. **Racism is not just about individual prejudice**: The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air's portrayal of Will Smith navigating life as a black teenager in a predominantly white neighborhood still holds up today. However, it's the show's treatment of racist characters that stands out – often using them as comedic foils or plot devices, rather than fleshing out their complexities as human beings. This highlights how racism can manifest in subtle ways, even when we're not aware of it.
2. **Sexism is still a pervasive issue**: The X-Files' Dana Scully was a prime example of the "tough, intelligent woman" trope – a character who often found herself at the center of male-dominated fields. However, watching her struggles to navigate a male-dominated industry also reveals how sexism can affect even well-intentioned women. This highlights the need for equal opportunities and representation in all areas of life.
3. **Mental health matters**: Frasier's portrayal of the titular character's anxiety and depression is still relatable today. However, what struck me was how often his issues were used as a source of comedy, rather than being taken seriously enough to drive meaningful storylines. This speaks to the stigma surrounding mental illness and the need for more nuanced portrayals.
4. **Friendship can be messy**: Friends' portrayal of the gang's relationships is iconic – but what's striking is how often they turned to each other when faced with problems, rather than individual solutions. This highlights the importance of having a support system in life, as well as the value of learning to navigate conflict and compromise.
5. **Gentrification is real**: The Nanny's portrayal of a Jewish family hiring an African American nanny from Jamaica raises some uncomfortable questions about cultural appropriation and power dynamics. However, it also showcases how gentrification can lead to changes in neighborhoods, displacement of long-time residents, and the erasure of community.
6. **Grief is not linear**: 3rd Rock from the Earth's Dick Solomon's struggle with grief after his wife's death is both heartbreaking and insightful. What struck me was how often grief was portrayed as something that could be overcome through sheer force of will – rather than acknowledging its complexity and variability.
7. **Class differences matter**: Sabrina the Teenage Witch's portrayal of the supernatural world often seemed to focus on class divisions between the wealthy and the poor. However, it's also revealing how these differences can affect even seemingly equal relationships – like those between Sabrina and her aunts.
8. **Trauma is not something you "get over"**: The X-Files' Mulder and Scully's shared past experiences with trauma are both poignant and unsettling. What struck me was how often their traumas were reduced to simplistic explanations or plot devices, rather than being explored in depth.
9. **The power of vulnerability**: Frasier's character development arc is largely driven by his willingness to be vulnerable and open up about his feelings. This highlights the importance of embracing our weaknesses and imperfections – as well as learning to navigate the complexities of human relationships.
10. **Representation matters, even for marginalized groups within marginalized groups**: The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air's portrayal of African American characters often took center stage. However, what struck me was how often these characters were depicted as one-dimensional or fetishized – rather than being given agency and depth.
As we rewatch 90s sitcoms with modern eyes, it's clear that these shows may have been created decades ago, but their lessons remain painfully relevant today. By acknowledging the complexities of human experience, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and each other – and work towards creating a more just and compassionate world for all.
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