The TV drama Grey’s Anatomy provides many excellent examples of concepts we have learned in class and presents them to millions of viewers every Thursday night. The 17 seasons of Grey’s Anatomy tackles many social issues head on – including mental health, gun violence, domestic abuse, sexual assault, and alcoholism. Some concepts that could relate more closely to our class content include the show’s presentation of feminism, racial injustices, and health care reform.
The concept of feminism is present throughout every season of Grey’s Anatomy and is specifically exemplified through the main character: Meredith Grey. Dr. Grey is a leading female surgeon who makes her way through a primarily male-dominated field. Dr. Grey, as well as other female characters, experience hateful and degrading comments in the workplace due to their gender. In season 12, episode 3, Meredith stands up for herself – as she has not been receiving equal pay as some of her male colleagues. This is a great example of Othering and the concept of power, as females have historically been looked down upon – especially in the workplace. As this is a relevant topic, it is important that the media is portraying women in power who are successful and intelligent – fully capable of diminishing the role of the Other.
The latest season of Grey’s Anatomy has included many references to the Black Lives Matter movement. In one episode, the surgeons worked to save the lives of individuals who were peacefully protesting. Earlier in the series, Dr. Miranda Bailey (a black surgeon) must have “the talk” with her son. The audience watches as Dr. Bailey explains to her six-year-old son how he should interact with the police – no sudden movements, no hands in your pocket, no speaking. The show highlights the racial injustices that are ever present in our society and the systemic rooting of these issues. This could serve as another example of Othering and relates to racial issues discussed in our unit with MLK’s Letter from Birmingham Jail.
Lastly, the need for healthcare reform is highlighted throughout multiple episodes within Grey’s Anatomy. Throughout the series, there are many patients who are unable to attain life-saving treatment or surgery because they cannot afford health insurance. Meredith Grey grew up a privileged life, with her mother as a surgeon, her easily accessible education, and her now well-paying job. You can see her grow as a character as she begins to understand her privilege and how healthcare has been so accessible to herself. The show focuses on an intersectional viewpoint with healthcare – race, class, and even citizenship.