Masculinity in the Kitchen: Episodes of Machismo and Symbolic Violence in the MasterChef Program

Abstract

The boom of gastronomy reality shows in Brazil has influenced the culinary industry and exposed issues of gender inequality and symbolic violence, emphasizing the importance of questioning and restructuring these configurations in order to promote more inclusive and equitable culinary environments. The objective of this article was to identify and analyze episodes of gender discrimination on the television program MasterChef in light of the concepts of masculinity and Bourdieu's symbolic violence, using two methods: literature research and data collection and analysis on the MasterChef program. It can be observed from the highlighted excerpts of dialogue that symbolic violence is present and often goes unnoticed by the agents who practice it or receive it, with the reproduction of gender stereotypes, including among the female participants of the program. It was also observed how symbolic violence operates in these gastronomy programs, reinforcing norms of masculinity and femininity that perpetuate inequalities in the culinary industry. Although this research has provided a broad overview of the topic, future investigations could delve deeper with case studies and direct interviews. The importance of awareness, leadership and the deconstruction of gender norms is emphasized in creating more inclusive and respectful working environments, contributing to a more equitable professional field.