Can bisexual multiplicity be an ethics of relational abundance rather than moral confusion?
Sexual identity is not always clear-cut. Bisexual multiplicity involves attraction to more than one gender at once, which can be confusing for those who are used to thinking about sexuality in terms of binary oppositions.
This ethics of relational abundance could offer opportunities for greater connection and understanding across different identities.
Bisexual multiplicity refers to the idea that someone experiences romantic and/or sexual attraction to multiple genders simultaneously. This differs from being pansexual, which means being attracted to all genders, and polyamory, which describes having multiple romantic or sexual partners. It also differs from being nonbinary, which means rejecting the gender binary altogether.
The term "bisexual multiplicity" was coined by author and activist Janet Mock in her book Redefining Realness. She argued that instead of seeing people as either heterosexual or homosexual, it makes sense to think of them as existing along a spectrum of attractions.
Someone might feel drawn to both men and women but also have a preference for masculine energy. They may enjoy dating men but find themselves irresistibly attracted to certain transmasculine people.
Criticizing bisexual multiplicity as "moral confusion" ignores its complexity and diversity. Someone who has never been attracted to anyone outside of their assigned sex may still struggle with internalized misogyny or other social conditioning that limits their ability to explore their desires. Likewise, someone who has only dated people of their own race or class may not realize how much they are missing out on by staying within those boundaries.
Instead of focusing on labels or categories, bisexual multiplicity can lead us to deeper intimacy. By acknowledging our complex feelings and desires, we can learn more about ourselves and others. We can challenge assumptions about what is normal or natural and expand our understanding of love, connection, and intimacy.
Of course, exploring this ethics of relational abundance requires trust and communication. It's essential to be upfront about your needs and desires when entering into new relationships. You should always ask permission before pursuing a romantic or sexual relationship with someone else. This is especially important if you're married or otherwise committed to another person.
Bisexual multiplicity offers opportunities for greater connection and understanding across different identities. Rather than seeing it as moral confusion, we can recognize it as an ethics of relational abundance. We can use it to build stronger, healthier, and more fulfilling relationships with ourselves and others.
Can bisexual multiplicity be an ethics of relational abundance rather than moral confusion?
There are many different ways that people can experience sexuality and gender identity, and bisexual multiplicity is one such way. Some individuals who identify as bisexual may feel that they are attracted to multiple genders or sexes at once, while others may find themselves shifting between attraction to different genders or sexes over time.