Sarah Palin is the beneficiary of sexism. The public response to Palin’s candidacy is a major setback for feminism because it proves that negative stereotypes about women are deeply engrained in the subconscious of many Americans. But society’s sexism is a political advantage for America’s first female Republican vice-presidential nominee because it shields her from the vigorous scrutiny normally faced by her male counterparts.
Palin’s popularity is based largely on superficial qualities. Much of her appeal stems from the fact she’s a self-described “hockey mom” — a middle-class wife and mother whose life revolves around her family. And, although no one dares to say it, the “Palin Factor” has a lot to do with her physical appearance.
