The tumblr page 'Men Taking Up too Much Space on the Train' delivers exactly what it promises: men taking up space. Whether it's on train in cities like New York, London, Paris or Cordoba (Spain), it seems like men taking up space is a global problem.
The photos hilariously illustrate the idea of male privilege by contrasting how both genders sit. Women appear to shrink down as little as possible, while men take up space, spreading and extending their legs as much as possible.
On a tumblr page like this, men will invariably bring up the fact that they have testicles, which prevents them from bringing their legs together as much as possible. While this is indeed true, some culprits (as the photos show) are just being greedy.
Female Space-Encroaching Photos
This Tumblr Page Shines a Spotlight on Men Taking Up Space
Trend Themes
1. Gendered-space - There is an opportunity for designers to innovate gender neutral seating and transportation solutions.
2. Male-privilege - Businesses can capitalize on consultative gender diversity campaigns that could help eliminate gender based stereotypes.
3. Social-media-activism - There is demand for digital platforms that help individuals raise awareness on social issues.
Industry Implications
1. Design - There is a need for designers of public spaces and transportation to incorporate gender-neutral solutions.
2. Human Resources - Organizations can utilize Gender compliance Audit to administer tests, reviews and analysis to help systematically reduce biases.
3. Technology - Digital platforms need to be developed to facilitate raising awareness and activism around social issues.