A discussion has emerged around the naming conventions for women in politics, sparked by a TikTok video where a woman argued that Vice President Kamala Harris should be referred to by her last name, similar to how male politicians are addressed. The argument highlights a broader trend in various professions where women are often referred to by their first names while men are typically identified by their last names.
The speaker noted examples across different fields: Hillary Clinton is often called “Hillary,” while male counterparts like Charles Dickens or Charles Darwin are referenced by their surnames. A study from the Mayo Clinic in 2022 revealed that female doctors are twice as likely to be addressed by their first names compared to male doctors, reflecting a gender disparity in professional recognition. Similarly, a 2018 report from Cornell University found that college students were significantly more likely to use last names for male professors than for female professors.
Stav Atir, a social psychologist, stated that the choice of names usually aligns with societal gender stereotypes, with women portrayed as more approachable and lower in status, whereas men are perceived as more competent. Additionally, the TikTok user claimed that referring to women by their first names diminishes their power and infantilizes them.
However, after reflection, the author expressed a preference for being addressed by their first name. They noted that even Kamala Harris encourages people to call her Kamala. The writer also shared their personal experiences with name changes through marriage, revealing a connection to their first name, AnnaMarie, which they feel aligns more with their identity.
Following a recent wedding, the author has officially adopted the last name Kruse and expressed excitement about sharing their new name with their husband. They recently celebrated their marriage in a private ceremony with friends and are enthusiastic about their new identity as AnnaMarie Kruse.
Ultimately, the author emphasized their fondness for the uniqueness of their first name and their desire to be recognized not just by a last name linked to previous identities but simply as AnnaMarie. They expressed a joy in being known in a way that reflects their individuality rather than as just a composite of past names. The article concludes with an invitation to follow their work under the new name.