Queerness is often defined as a non-normative sexual orientation or gender expression that challenges societal norms of heterosexuality and cisgender identities.
Many scholars argue that it can also be seen as a fluid and dynamic process of self-discovery and personal growth. This view suggests that individuals may continually explore their sexuality and gender identity throughout their lives, shifting and evolving in response to various factors such as social and cultural contexts, experiences, and internal transformations.
In this essay, I will examine the philosophical concept of queerness as a continuous process of becoming rather than a fixed identity. Through an analysis of queer theory and feminist philosophy, I will demonstrate how this understanding allows for greater inclusivity and complexity within the LGBTQ+ community. By embracing the fluidity and diversity inherent in queerness, individuals are able to reject rigid binaries and embrace a more expansive vision of themselves and others.
It is important to understand what is meant by queerness and its relationship to identity. Queer theory emerged in the late 20th century as a critical lens through which to analyze power dynamics and oppression based on sexuality and gender. It seeks to challenge traditional notions of normalcy and binary thinking, arguing that all forms of sexuality and gender expression should be validated and respected. As Judith Butler writes, "Gender is performative, which means that it is constituted through discourse and practice rather than being biologically grounded or essentialized" (1990). In other words, gender and sexual orientation are socially constructed and subject to change over time.
This idea has been further developed by feminist philosopher Sara Ahmed, who proposes that queer theory can help us reimagine identity itself. According to Ahmed, identity is often seen as something fixed and unchanging, but this view limits our ability to recognize the multiple ways in which we can be shaped and transformed by experience. She suggests that "we might think of identities as orientations toward the world - they are always in motion, always under negotiation," and that we must acknowledge the "becomingness" of identity formation (2017). This understanding allows for greater inclusivity within the LGBTQ+ community, recognizing that there is no single way to be queer and that individuals may continue to explore their sexuality and gender throughout their lives.
Consider how one's sexual and gender identities may shift over time. Someone who identifies as lesbian at age 30 may later realize that they are non-binary or transgender. Alternatively, someone who was assigned male at birth may discover later in life that they identify more closely with female gender expression. These changes do not necessarily make these individuals any less valid or authentic; instead, they reflect a process of becoming, an ongoing journey of self-discovery and exploration. As Ahmed writes, "We move through the world differently when we are aware of ourselves as in motion," allowing for greater flexibility and openness in how we relate to others and ourselves (2017).
This view of queerness as a continuous process of becoming has implications for activism and political action. Rather than seeking to establish strict rules about what counts as legitimate forms of identity, activists could focus on creating spaces where all forms of sexuality and gender expression are recognized and valued. This approach would challenge traditional power structures based on binary thinking and allow for greater diversity and inclusion within the LGBTQ+ community.
It would recognize that some individuals may choose to present themselves as masculine or feminine while still identifying as gay, bisexual, or transgender.
This essay argues that queerness can be understood as a continuous philosophical process of becoming rather than a fixed identity. By embracing the fluidity and diversity inherent in queerness, individuals can reject rigid binaries and embrace a more expansive vision of themselves and others. Through an analysis of queer theory and feminist philosophy, I have demonstrated the importance of recognizing the multiple ways in which identity is shaped and transformed over time. As such, this understanding has important implications for activism and political action, challenging traditional notions of normalcy and promoting inclusivity within the LGBTQ+ community.
References:
Butler, J. (1990). Gender Trouble: Feminism and the Subversion of Identity. New York: Routledge.
Ahmed, S. (2017). Living a Feminist Life. Durham: Duke University Press.
Can queerness be understood as a continuous philosophical process of becoming rather than a fixed identity?
Queerness can be considered as a continuous philosophical process of becoming that is shaped by various cultural, social, and political factors. It involves an ongoing exploration of one's sexuality, gender identity, and relationship with others. The journey towards self-discovery and acceptance often requires personal reflection and introspection, as well as engagement with broader issues such as LGBTQ+ rights and activism.