Semiotics and Stereotypes

I was very interested in the discussion that we had in class on Thursday. As we were discussing signs of sports vs. fitness we noticed several signs that signified certain stereotypes. For example, a hot woman on the cover of Sports Illustrated is a stereotypical sign that attracts men; or a headline stating a new way to get flatter abs in just minutes a day is supposed to appeal to women.

As we pointed out these are all signs that are stereotypical signifiers. I would like to point out that even though these signs are stereotypical, we have stereotypes because they are usually true. Naked women DO appeal to men, and wanting to get flat abs in minutes a day DOES appeal to woman. Now there are always exceptions to stereotypes, their are exceptions to almost everything.

What seemed very interesting, however, was the question, are these signifiers that are very stereotypical, stereotypical because our society has mad them stereotypical? Or do naked women naturally appeal to men, and does not having to work hard to get flat abs naturally appeal to women?

I do not remember if we talked about this any in class, and I do not know if there is an exact answer. But I think that society has made these signifiers stereotypical, over time. Over time we have just come to accept that women are supposed to like one thing and men another.