What Philosophy Has to Say about Becoming Yourself
The journey towards self-discovery is an important aspect of human life that involves exploring one's identity and understanding who they are. Selfhood is the state of being unique and individual, while authenticity refers to being true to oneself. For those who identify as transgender or gender nonconforming, this process can be especially difficult due to societal expectations of gender roles. In this essay, I will explore how philosophy has contributed to understanding the significance of becoming oneself for trans individuals and their quest for authenticity.
The Greek philosopher Plato suggested that each person contains within themselves a perfect form of themselves, known as the "ideal" or "perfect" self. This ideal self resides in the soul and serves as a guidepost to help people become better versions of themselves. According to Plato, achieving selfhood requires recognizing and cultivating one's innate talents and abilities. Trans individuals may find it particularly challenging to do so because society often imposes limitations on what they should and shouldn't do based on their assigned sex at birth.
By embracing their authentic selves, trans people can begin to break down these barriers and live more fulfilling lives.
Feminist philosophers such as Simone de Beauvoir believed that the social construction of gender plays a significant role in shaping an individual's sense of self. She argued that gender is not fixed but rather a set of behaviors and traits taught through cultural norms. As such, trans people may face additional challenges in becoming their ideal selves since society expects them to conform to certain standards. Nevertheless, trans people can still work towards their goals by rejecting traditional gender roles and creating their own definition of what it means to be masculine or feminine.
Transcendentalism also highlights the importance of becoming oneself. This philosophical movement emphasizes the primacy of self-reliance and individualism, which aligns with the idea that trans people should strive to be true to themselves despite societal expectations. Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, "Trust thyself: every heart vibrates to that iron string." By trusting themselves and following their intuition, trans individuals can uncover who they truly are and express this truth authentically.
Existentialism offers insights into how trans individuals can become their ideal selves. Existentialists believe that people create meaning for themselves through action, choice, and freedom. Accordingly, trans people have the agency to define who they are and live according to those definitions. Jean-Paul Sartre wrote, "Man is nothing else than his passion" and suggested that everyone has the responsibility to make decisions based on their authentic desires rather than external forces like societal pressure. Trans people can embrace this philosophy by embracing their unique perspectives and experiences and living accordingly.
Philosophy provides valuable insight into the significance of becoming oneself for trans individuals seeking authenticity. Plato, de Beauvoir, transcendentalism, and existentialism all offer ways for trans people to pursue their dreams and fulfill their potential while staying true to themselves. Through self-exploration and a commitment to personal growth, trans people can discover their ideal selves and live lives of purpose and meaning.