Battlestar Galactica: The fight over Starbuck

Science fiction has always had an uneasy relationship with women. (This site is awesome for context:Feminist SF.) I did not become a fan of the new Battlestar Galactica until the second season. Once ensconced in this world, I was offended by Dirk Benedict’s outcry against Starbuck. Benedict’s childish and pathetic ranting about the change in gender of one of the principle characters is an insult to the new audience and the past audience of the show. It reflects an attitude that I find a personal affront; it’s ridiculous the characteristics that Benedict finds so emasculating when portrayed by a woman are empowering when played by a man.