Do you think that writers have a responsibility to dispel stereotypes?
I think that sometimes various stereotypes - perhaps those linked to gender most of all - are quite hard to avoid; there would be a lot of great books that wouldn't be the same without them. Obviously, though, you don't want to have characters that end up as two dimensional clichés.
What are you thoughts?
Some stereotypes can't be avoided, but I think writers who exploit evil characters as too 'ugly' really go a bit far. Then again, authors who play on the opposite and make their evil characters too attractive and beautiful annoy me too.
Moderation, that's key!
I think there is a responsibility to reveal the character behind a stereotype so they don't end up two-dimensional clichés, but some people do actively nurture their image into a specific stereotype and the their reasons for doing that can create some of the most interesting stories you will tell. Use them to your advantage.