The genre of science fiction is historically dominated by men. On average, women write about 10% of popular science fiction books. One woman that stands out in popularity is Ursula K. Le Guin, but it is telling that she has only male protagonists. Furthermore, most female characters are created for male fantasy. When they do have more major roles, 60% of female characters’ plots are built around having experienced sexual violence. Science fiction itself is split into two categories: hard science and soft science. Hard science sticks to real scientific theories or laws and is much more male dominated. This makes sense as 80% of the world’s scientific researchers are men. Soft science fiction is not as tied to true scientific theory and is much more wrapped up in emotion and much more welcoming to women.
Female authors have an 80% female audience while the readership of male authors is split evenly. Additionally, people who review science fiction book are mostly men. This is especially interesting in looking at Rick and Morty. Just as mostly men write science fiction books, the norm for the show was to only have male writers. And just as mostly men review science fiction books, the majority of viewers of the show are men. While the genre can be progressive and imaginative, it also has these norms that allowed Rick and Morty to be insensitive to gender inclusiveness and collaboration.
Jerry's alien girlfriend is created solely for his male fantasy.