Can queer temporality teach moral patience—the virtue of dwelling in uncertainty?
The word "queer" is often used to describe people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, nonbinary, or any other sexual identity that falls outside of heteronormative expectations. It can also be used more broadly to refer to anything that challenges traditional norms and expectations. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the concept of "queer time," which suggests that queer people experience time differently than cisgender and straight individuals do. This theory posits that queer people exist in a state of perpetual liminality, constantly occupying spaces between categories and identities. As a result, they are uniquely equipped to understand the nature of change and the passage of time.
One way in which this can manifest is through an emphasis on what sociologist Saskia Bos calls "moral patience." Moral patience is the ability to dwell in uncertainty and tolerate ambiguity without feeling the need to rush towards resolution. It requires being comfortable with paradoxical states of both knowing and not knowing, accepting contradiction, and embracing complexity. For many queer people, this comes naturally due to their experiences of living at the margins of society. They have had to learn how to navigate systems that do not recognize them as full human beings and deal with rejection from family members and peers.
Consider the process of coming out as LGBTQ+. The person must first come to terms with their own identity before sharing it with others. There may be some confusion and self-doubt along the way, but ultimately, they realize that their identity is real and deserving of recognition. Once they decide to disclose their orientation or gender identity, there will likely be negative reactions from those who refuse to accept them. But despite these setbacks, they persist in their efforts to live authentically.
They develop resilience and a sense of agency that allows them to weather any storm.
This process of moral patience can also apply to relationships. Queer couples often face unique challenges, such as navigating different sexual desires, negotiating power dynamics, and dealing with outside pressures (e.g., homophobia). These difficulties require them to practice patience and empathy while working through conflict. By doing so, they build trust and intimacy that strengthens their bond over time.
The concept of queer temporality suggests that queer individuals are uniquely equipped to understand the nature of change and the passage of time. This can manifest in the form of moral patience, which is the ability to dwell in uncertainty and tolerate ambiguity without feeling the need to rush towards resolution. Through this lens, we can see how queerness offers valuable lessons about how to navigate complex situations, cultivate resilience, and build strong relationships.
Can queer temporality teach moral patience—the virtue of dwelling in uncertainty?
Temporalities are not necessarily related to morals but can be influenced by them. Queer temporalities refer to the non-linear conceptualization of time that is often associated with marginalized identities such as LGBTQ+ individuals, who experience time differently due to social pressures and historical oppression.