Strolling Dead began a discussion in 2012 on this topic, but a lot has changed since then.
Or has it?
I read an article that brings up something we talk about fairly regularly on this forum. It's a flawed article but it brings up a lot of points that get bandied about here.
Since we talk about it in some fashion frequently, it seems that it is time to reopen a general discussion on the topic.
Strolling Dead's topic is all I found so I apologize if there is a fresher thread on the subject.
The following article is the springboard that made me post this:
http://www.huffingto...anada&ir=Canada
I think there are other forces at play than the ones cited but it is still an interesting discussion.
Does TWD need to spread realistic scruffiness across the board?
Are there legitimate aesthetic reasons to continue grooming as they do?
The article suggests that women should have armpit hair by now. I agree. But does it matter?
It claims that Glenn's lack of facial hair is akin to Asian emasculation. Is that fair? I don't think so. I think Rick's beard is an outlier and the fact he isn't groomed would be perfectly realistic if the other guys looked that way too. I think the real issue here is inconsistant scruffiness.
The article mentions the quota we all know and cringe at regarding black men.
Another view would be that people are just looking for things to be upset about. TWD is clearly a very diverse show, and the characters have moved far beyond season 1's stereotypes. In fact, it is arguable that the stereotypes were intentional in order to show how the people once viewed the world and how they now view the world due to being forced together.
I think the author forced a lot of points to make her point stronger, and that's regrettable, because clearly this is a discussion some of us have on our mind.
Anyway, discuss the article, discuss the ideas, or ignore the thread because you're sick of the frequent chatter.
Personally, I love the show and think its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.