The subject of transgender is one that has been discussed extensively across different platforms from scientific journals to everyday conversation. Transgenders are individuals who do not identify with their assigned gender at birth. There is a consensus among experts that gender is fluid, and there are various ways through which people can express themselves in terms of sexual orientation. The trans experience reveals that embodiment, identity, and moral agency have an intimate connection because they affect each other in a significant way. This article will discuss how these three aspects influence each other for transgenders.
Embodiment refers to a person's physical form and body shape. Transgenders undergo surgery or take hormones to match the gender they identify with rather than the one they were born with. Changing one's physical appearance helps them feel more comfortable in society. The process of physically transitioning changes the individual's perception of self. They begin to see themselves as a reflection of what they want to be instead of accepting their biological sex.
Identity refers to a person's character, including values, beliefs, personality, and attributes. For transgenders, this aspect is crucial because it defines how they view themselves and their role in society. When transgenders change their physical features, it becomes easier for them to embrace their true identity. It allows them to define themselves according to their preferred sex, creating a balance between who they are inside and outside. Identity also involves emotions, behaviors, and attitude towards life; thus, changing their bodies facilitates internal transformation.
Moral agency encompasses moral decisions made by an individual based on personal principles, ethics, and beliefs. The trans experience shows that individuals struggle with decision-making regarding their sex. Most individuals face discrimination from family, friends, peers, and society at large.
They make choices based on their morals and sense of justice. Despite the challenges, transgenders still stand firm to live a comfortable life. They can overcome societal pressure and choose to identify with the gender they prefer.
Embodiment, identity, and moral agency have an intimate connection that affects transgender individuals. Transitioning physically influences one's perception of self, while identity plays a significant role in defining their identity. Moral agency helps them decide to accept or reject the norms set by society and create a new path for themselves.
What does the trans experience reveal about the intimate connection between embodiment, identity, and moral agency?
The experience of being transgender reveals that embodiment, identity, and moral agency are deeply intertwined with each other. When an individual experiences gender dysphoria, they may feel that their physical body does not match their internal sense of self, leading them to identify as the opposite sex or gender. This can be seen as a form of embodied cognition, wherein one's perception of their body is directly related to their sense of self.