Friendship is an important aspect of human existence that has been studied and written about for centuries. The concept of friendship is often associated with the idea of closeness, trust, and loyalty between individuals.
Recent advancements in technology have allowed for new forms of communication and interaction to take place across different borders, cultures, identities, and social groups. This has led to the creation of hybrid realities, where individuals can form bonds and connections outside of their immediate physical surroundings. In this paper, I will explore what a relational ethics of friendship might look like when enacted across these diverse contexts and how queerness may frame it.
What Is Relational Ethics?
Relational ethics is a theoretical framework that focuses on the importance of relationships and interdependence in understanding moral behavior. It seeks to understand how people relate to each other in various contexts and situations. According to Pauline Teresa Tesler, "relational ethics is based on the belief that the self is constituted through its relations with others." In other words, our identity is shaped by our interactions with others and our ability to form meaningful relationships. This means that all humans are connected and depend on one another for survival, growth, and development.
Enacting Relational Ethics Across Borders, Identities, and Social Groups
When we apply relational ethics to cross-cultural contexts, we must consider the ways in which power dynamics, privilege, and oppression affect the formation and maintenance of friendships.
Globalization has made it easier than ever for people from different countries to connect and communicate online.
There are still many cultural differences that may make it difficult for two people to become friends. One way to address this issue is through a process of negotiation and compromise, where both parties attempt to understand each other's perspectives and find common ground.
Chosen Families, Digital Networks, and Hybrid Realities
The concept of chosen families refers to groups of individuals who come together without blood ties or biological connections. These groups can be formed around shared interests, hobbies, values, or political beliefs. The rise of digital networks has made it possible for chosen families to expand beyond physical boundaries and form bonds across distances. Online communities allow people to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences with like-minded individuals from all over the world.
Hybrid realities refer to spaces where virtual and physical worlds intersect. In these spaces, individuals can create new identities and explore new forms of communication and interaction.
Some online platforms have created virtual avatars that users can customize and use to interact with others. This can help break down barriers between individuals and promote understanding and empathy.
Queerness and Friendship
Queer theory focuses on the ways in which society marginalizes and excludes certain groups based on their sexuality or gender identity. This framework can be applied to friendship by exploring how queer individuals navigate the social expectations placed upon them. Queer friendships often involve breaking free from traditional norms and expectations, allowing for more openness, creativity, and experimentation.
Future Relational Structures
As technology continues to advance, we may see even more diverse relationships forming across borders, cultures, identities, and social groups.
Virtual reality technologies could allow individuals to experience a simulated version of another person's life or culture. This would help promote understanding and empathy while also providing opportunities for unique experiences.
Artificial intelligence (AI) could potentially play a role in creating new types of relational structures, such as companion robots designed to provide emotional support and companionship.