Controversy Over Song Deemed Degrading to Women: IPB University Professor Highlights the Importance of Family Friendly Information Spaces
The controversy surrounding a song performed by a public official whose lyrics are considered degrading to women has sparked widespread public reaction.
According to Rahmi Damayanti, SSi, MSi, a lecturer in the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences at IPB University, this incident should be viewed in a broader context as a reminder of the importance of creating information spaces that support family values.
Rahmi explained that families do not exist in isolation from their environment. Every day, families are exposed to various forms of information through the media, works of art, and public spaces information that is interpreted and can influence the values that shape their daily lives.
“What matters most is not merely the controversy over a single song, but how we collectively create family-friendly information spaces that uphold the dignity of every human being,” she said.
She emphasized that any narrative that demeans a person, whether a woman or a man has the potential to influence how families view the values they wish to pass on to their members. Therefore, public spaces need to present content that respects human dignity.
According to Rahmi, the public’s strong response to this controversy is actually a positive sign. It shows that the public remains sensitive to works or information deemed inconsistent with the values they hold dear.
“This sensitivity is important because it shows that the public is not apathetic toward the values developing around them. A healthy information environment is also a vital asset for families in instilling life values,” she explained.
Rahmi cautioned that if narratives that demean others continue to be treated as jokes or something ordinary, the impact will not only be felt by the targeted groups but could also erode the fundamental values of social life.
In her view, the normalization of demeaning narratives has the potential to weaken attitudes of mutual respect, care, and regard for others as individuals of dignity. Therefore, this controversy should serve as a moment to reaffirm the role of the family as the primary setting for instilling respect for the dignity of every human being.
Rahmi hopes the public will become more discerning in how they respond to and create content in the public sphere. In her view, every work of art has room for expression but also carries a moral responsibility, as it will be received and interpreted by society including families.
She added that families, society, the media, and creators play complementary roles in building a healthy information environment. Through such collaboration, the public sphere is expected to support the growth of values that respect human dignity while strengthening the values of family life. (Lp) (IAAS/LAN)
