The idea that it is normal to be attracted exclusively to one gender has been widely accepted for centuries.
Recent studies suggest that bisexual individuals are not necessarily attracted exclusively to just one gender but can have romantic and/or sexual feelings towards both males and females simultaneously. This challenges traditional assumptions about monogamy, exclusivity, and infidelity.
Bisexual individuals may feel comfortable being polyamorous, which means having multiple romantic partners concurrently and openly. In this case, they do not view fidelity as an absolute value but rather see attraction and love as fluid concepts. They may also feel more comfortable engaging in non-monogamous sexual encounters without guilt. Some argue that these approaches challenge normative ethical assumptions regarding relational exclusivity and fidelity because they promote promiscuity and encourage people to abandon long-term commitments.
Bisexuality does not necessarily mean that someone is sexually active with both genders all the time or even equally. Individuals who identify as bisexual may have periods of greater attraction to one gender than another.
Some may experience periods where they are more interested in men while others when they are more attracted to women. Similarly, their romantic interests may fluctuate over time, making them unsuitable for monogamy.
These variations do not necessarily make them less committed to their partners.
Another challenge to monogamy and exclusivity presented by bisexuality concerns its impact on family life. When a partner has children from a previous relationship, it becomes increasingly difficult to maintain a strict policy of non-intercourse outside the marriage. Some may suggest that bisexuals can choose between monogamy or fidelity based on their situation, but critics question whether such choices are practical or fair to those involved.
Bisexual desire challenges normative ethical assumptions regarding relational exclusivity, fidelity, and attraction. While traditional values emphasize monogamy, exclusivity, and fidelity, bisexual individuals often find themselves in situations where these concepts do not fit easily. Therefore, we need to explore new ways of understanding sexuality and relationships.
In what ways does bisexual desire challenge normative ethical assumptions regarding relational exclusivity, fidelity, and attraction?
Bisexuality is a sexual orientation characterized by romantic and/or sexual attraction towards two genders. It challenges several normative ethical assumptions regarding relational exclusivity, fidelity, and attraction. Bisexuality can imply non-monogamy, which contradicts the idea of exclusive commitment between partners.