The Mad Men Influence

Mad Men, the popular television series on AMC, has deeply influenced American culture. The relationships among the men and women express empowerment, subordination, independence, and sexuality. The costume design has also affected men and women viewers. There is a contest that allows fans to upload a photograph depicting themselves during the 50s and 60s in order to win a chance to be on the show. Men and women have embraced the classic fashion sense that was mainstream during this time period.

There's even a Mad About Style Guide.


The men are made for the workplace and the women take care of the kids. The women in the office are all secretaries, except one young woman who strives to be like the other guys, and sometimes pushes through. Here is a video "Mad Men in 60 Seconds" that illustrates a few of the themes during the season.



Since I am not an avid viewer, I will not jump to any conclusions that may not be true. However, I do feel that the show is idolizing sex and cheating in a different light compared to other TV shows. Several of the female characters are very voluptuous and curvy, but are also seen as sex symbols in the office.

My feelings about this program go back and forth. It places the male in a position where he can do whatever he wants, whether it's cheating or drinking liquor all day during work. Positive themes do arise, for instance the young woman who is a creative genius at the advertising firm, and gets promotions above the other males.