Bisexuality is a sexual orientation characterized by attraction to people of more than one gender. It can include romantic and/or sexual attractions to men, women, both genders simultaneously, or nonbinary individuals. Bisexuals may have an equal amount of attraction towards all their partners. While some studies suggest bi individuals are more likely to engage in casual sex, there is no consensus on how common bisexuality is among men and women.
Moral hierarchies
Moral hierarchy refers to the ranking of moral systems according to their intrinsic value, importance, or validity. This includes societal norms such as marriage, monogamy, heterosexuality, and cisgender identities. These hierarchies often privilege simplicity and clarity over complexity and diversity. Monogamous couples who conform to traditional gender roles are seen as "normal" and desirable, while polyamory and other forms of non-monogamy are deemed immoral. Sexual orientations like bisexuality that do not fit into binary categories are also stigmatized and marginalized.
Complications
Bi erasure occurs when society ignores bisexual existence or dismisses it as simply being homosexual or straight. This can lead to isolation, mental health issues, and difficulties with intimacy. Biphobia is prejudice against bisexual people based on stereotypes about promiscuity, greediness, or lack of commitment. Coming out as bisexual is often difficult due to fear of rejection by family members, friends, employers, or potential partners. Bisexual individuals experience discrimination in LGBTQ+ spaces because they are considered unstable, indecisive, or insufficiently committed to one sexual identity.
Complexity
Bisexuality challenges simplistic moral hierarchies by acknowledging multiple forms of attraction and relationships. It disrupts assumptions that heteronormativity and monogamy are universal values. By recognizing the fluid nature of sexual orientation and desire, it opens up possibilities for new ways of understanding love and connection. Some argue that bisexuals may be more adaptable than others since they have a greater capacity for emotional flexibility.
This assumption ignores individual experiences and reinforces biphobic stereotypes.
Bisexuality has the power to destabilize moral hierarchies that privilege simplicity over complexity. While it can cause complications, it can also offer opportunities for growth and exploration. We need to support bisexual visibility and acceptance while recognizing the unique challenges faced by bisexual individuals. Only then can we create a society where all identities and relationships are validated and celebrated.
How might bisexuality destabilize moral hierarchies that privilege clarity over complexity?
Bisexuality can challenge traditional concepts of sexual orientation and gender identity, which are often tied to binary categories such as "straight" and "gay. " Bisexual individuals may blur these distinctions, challenging societal norms around what constitutes masculinity, femininity, and nonbinary identities. This can lead to discomfort and confusion among those who view themselves as heterosexual or homosexual, potentially leading them to feel threatened by bisexual people.