In the context of contemporary discourses surrounding bisexuality, there has been growing attention to the ways in which bisexual individuals are often marginalized and excluded from mainstream social spaces. This can lead to a sense of isolation and alienation that is compounded by societal attitudes towards bisexuality, such as the assumption that it is simply a phase or that bisexuals cannot be monogamous or committed in their romantic partnerships. In contrast, recent studies have highlighted the importance of considering the multiplicity of experiences within bisexual communities, which include but go beyond sexual orientation. In this article, I will explore how these multiple identities and relational engagements shape bisexual selfhood, relational engagement, and moral responsibility.
The concept of multiplicity suggests that bisexual individuals may identify with more than one gender or sexual identity, leading to unique experiences and perspectives on selfhood.
Some bisexual individuals may experience a fluid sense of gender and sexual identity, while others may feel comfortable with more traditional binary categories.
Bisexuals may experience a blending of different aspects of themselves, such as their cultural background and personal interests, into their sexual and romantic relationships. These multifaceted identities can inform the way bisexuals navigate social spaces and communicate their needs and desires in intimate relationships.
The ontology of multiplicity can also influence bisexual relational engagement.
Bisexuals may find themselves navigating different power dynamics and expectations depending on who they are dating, whether cisgender or trans, masculine or feminine, etc. They may also need to negotiate boundaries around jealousy and competition between their various partners.
The complex nature of bisexual relational engagement can also lead to unique forms of connection and support, where each partner brings different strengths and perspectives to the relationship.
The ontology of multiplicity shapes bisexual moral responsibility by highlighting the importance of recognizing the diverse experiences and perspectives of others within bisexual communities. This includes acknowledging the ways in which bisexuals may be marginalized or excluded from social spaces and working towards creating more inclusive environments. It also means recognizing the complexity of bisexual experiences and the many factors that contribute to them, rather than reducing them to a single category or stereotype. By embracing this ontology, we can better understand how bisexual individuals navigate the world and work towards more just and equitable societies.
How does the ontology of multiplicity shape bisexual experiences of selfhood, relational engagement, and moral responsibility?
Bisexual people often experience identity dilemmas because they may not feel like they fit into either heterosexuality or homosexuality, which are the two main categories that society typically recognizes as sexual identities. This can lead to feelings of confusion and uncertainty about one's place in the world. Additionally, bisexual individuals may also have difficulty finding support within their communities due to stigma and discrimination based on their orientation.