One common way to refer to people who identify as bisexual is "bi". This term can be used as an adjective, noun, or verb. In this context, it means attracted romantically or sexually to more than one gender. Some people prefer to call themselves pansexuals, omnisexuals, polysexuals, fluid, queer, or questioning, but these terms are often considered synonyms. Bisexuality is recognized as a legitimate identity that can coexist with any others, such as heterosexuality, homosexuality, or asexuality.
The concept of non-monogamy has been around for centuries, but it became mainstream in the 20th century when psychologist Alfred Kinsey published his research on human sexuality. Non-monogamous practices include swinging, polygamy, polyamory, open relationships, and ethical non-monogamy, among others. The latter refers to honest communication between partners about their desires and boundaries while engaging in sexual or emotional relationships outside the primary relationship. Bisexual individuals may have different approaches to non-monogamy based on their cultural background, personal experiences, and beliefs.
Ethics arise from the interplay between individual choices and social expectations.
If two consenting adults agree to have intimate relations with others without hurting anyone else's feelings, that decision is not inherently unethical. If a person lies to their partner about cheating, they are breaking trust, which can cause harm. So, ethics also involve honesty and transparency.
Some bisexual people identify as monogamous, and some do not. They may experience stigma and discrimination from society and even other LGBTQ+ communities because of misconceptions about bisexuals being promiscuous or insincere. Bisexual women tend to be more likely to be involved in casual sex than bisexual men. Still, this difference may come down to gender norms rather than innate preferences. Some bisexual men fear being rejected by gay and straight friends, family members, and coworkers for dating someone "outside" their group.
When it comes to non-monogamy, many bisexual people feel free to explore their attraction to multiple genders simultaneously. This practice has been called 'polyfidelity', which involves committed love, friendship, and sex with several people at once. It requires communication skills and strong boundaries. Others see non-monogamy as a way to break up monotony in a relationship, while others use it as an excuse to avoid commitment.
Polyamory does not necessarily equal infidelity. When partners communicate openly, they can set rules and expectations before engaging in extramarital relationships.
One might agree to only sleep with close friends or to take turns when visiting the same partner. Another option is to have threesomes or foursomes without physical intimacy but just pleasure and bonding. The key is to maintain trust, respect, and safety among all parties involved.
What ethical dilemmas arise from bisexual relational practices that embrace multiplicity and non-monogamous frameworks?
The ethical dilemma arises from the fact that bisexual relational practices are often characterized by an openness to multiple partnerships and non-monogamy. This raises questions about boundaries, consent, communication, and honesty within relationships. Bisexuals may feel pressure to be inclusive of all their partners while also respecting each other's needs and desires.