Hugh Hefner...I think it is pretty safe to say that everyone reading this blog not only knows who he is and what he created, but also is secretly a little bit envious of his lifestyle. It is truly one of a kind...breaking all stereotypical norms. However just to be safe let me say, Hugh Hefner is the Founder, Editor-in-Chief and Chief Creative Officer of Playboy. His world's best selling men’s lifestyle magazine has inspired a media empire and one of the most recognizable brands in history for over 50 years. The empire Hefner has created, along with the monumental Playboy Mansion has become an obsession of the media over the years. A write up on the founder states, "Throughout the years, Hef has become a fixture on the Hollywood celebrity club scene and the Mansion has once again become a mecca for entertainment industry superstars including a new wave of young motion picture and television celebrities, rock groups and more. Hollywood and cinema continue to be major factors in Hef's personal and professional life."
Although some people may not agree with the concept behind the magazine..literally selling sex...and argue that the magazine is extremely degrading to women, the application process to become a "playmate" and be photographed in the magazine is extremely competitive. Some women would kill to be in the iconic magazine..so I guess it depends on how you look at the situation. Either way Hefner has created quite the empire, which has in turn inspired numerous connections whether it be through the magazine itself, parties photographed by the media at the Playboy Mansion, reality television shows such as "Girls Next Door", merchandise, etc...the list goes on.
Absolutely! Playboy is a very strong medium, and yes, I think it has a surprisingly strong effect on women. People are definitely critical to the magazine, but also, a lot of women would say yes to be in the magazine too. Potentially, very hypocritical?
ReplyDeletePlayboy is hypocritical like all mediums can be. However, I myself am a huge fan of the show The Girls Next Door. It is very entertaining and I love watching it. I think Hef has definitely created a powerful stream of media and it should not be frowned upon just because it goes against usual stereotypes!
ReplyDeleteI think the desire of women to be in Playboy comes from how all the girls portrayed in the magazines are beautiful and worshiped. Playboy to close-minded people promotes degrading images, reputations, and situations. These people do not really try and understand what being in this magazines means for the women and what opportunities are presented to them for simply taking part.
ReplyDeleteFirst of all I have to admit that as a business student Hefner's idea to sell sex as one of the first people out there was absolutely genius and impressive.
ReplyDeleteI would also argue that most women would be somewhat flattered if they were asked to get their picture published in this magazine (even though they might not admit so). Going along with what Daniel said, I think everyone likes to hear that they are good looking and what would be better proof of that than getting their picture(s) published in a magazine like the playboy?