The relationship between temporal structures and capitalist economies is a central issue for understanding how gender, class, race, ethnicity, nationality, ability, and age intersect with one another to produce normative models of time management. Queer theory has made significant contributions to this area by exploring the ways in which alternative temporalities challenge these dominant models of efficiency, effectiveness, and progress.
Recent work in the field has been criticized for its lack of attention to the material and embodied dimensions of temporality, which have become increasingly important given current economic crises such as climate change. This article will discuss how queer temporality resists productivity and success by examining four themes: fluidity, cyclical time, duration, and rhythm.
Fluidity refers to the capacity to move across multiple categories and identities while refusing fixed positions within them. Queer theories of fluidity emphasize that identity is always changing and flexible rather than stable or permanent. In relation to time, this means that there are no set beginnings or ends but instead an ever-shifting present tense. This perspective challenges the linear narrative of success as something that can be attained through hard work and discipline; rather, it suggests that all life experiences contribute equally to shaping our sense of self.
Taking breaks from productive activities may not necessarily mean being unproductive but rather allowing ourselves more space for creativity and play.
Cyclical time refers to the idea that time is circular rather than linear and that we experience recurring patterns throughout our lives. Queer theories of cyclical time explore how different cultural practices repeat themselves over time without ever fully disappearing. In relation to work, this means that we cannot only look at individual tasks but also their wider contexts and histories. By understanding how previous struggles against oppression inform contemporary ones, we can better resist capitalist pressures on our time and engage in collective resistance efforts.
Duration refers to the length of time spent doing any activity, which varies based on culture and context. Queer theories of duration highlight the importance of slowness and patience when engaging with others who differ from us culturally or socially. In relation to work, this means that we must recognize the limits of productivity and acknowledge that some tasks take longer than expected due to various factors such as institutional barriers or personal difficulties. We should value these activities equally alongside those that seem more efficient because they often have greater social impact.
Rhythm refers to regular patterns or cycles within a system that govern how things move together. Queer theories of rhythm emphasize that bodies are never static but constantly moving and changing. In relation to work, this means that we need to pay attention to our own body's energy levels and rest periods instead of pushing them beyond what feels comfortable or natural.
Taking breaks during long meetings may help avoid burnout by giving ourselves time for reflection and rejuvenation.
Queer temporality resists the moral tyranny of productivity and success through its focus on fluidity, cyclical time, duration, and rhythm. It challenges linear narratives about progress and discipline while valuing individual differences in pace and intensity. By embracing these concepts, we can create alternative temporalities that prioritize playfulness over efficiency and pleasure over profit-maximization.
How does queer temporality resist the moral tyranny of productivity and success?
Queer temporality can be seen as a rejection of the dominant linear and homogeneous conception of time that values speed, efficiency, and progress. It challenges normative notions of time as something fixed and unchanging, and instead emphasizes its fluidity, complexity, and nonlinearity. This can lead to a resistance against the pressure to constantly produce and succeed, which is often driven by capitalist ideals and heteronormativity.