The subject matter of this article is the philosophical dimension that underlies the experience of romantic, affectional, or loving relationships between members of gender minorities and/or sexual minorities. This includes queer people who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex, nonbinary, pansexual, polyamorous, asexual, aromantic, demisexual, etc., as well as their allies and supporters. I will argue that queer love involves a unique set of moral commitments and values that can be described as a form of moral philosophy enacted through intimate interactions.
Philosophy of Intimacy
Intimacy is an essential aspect of all human relationships, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. It refers to the closeness, trust, and emotional connection shared between individuals who care for each other deeply.
The way it manifests itself may differ depending on the participants' identities and experiences. Queer love emphasizes the importance of mutual respect, open communication, empathy, vulnerability, honesty, and acceptance in developing and maintaining healthy intimate connections. By extension, queer love also promotes social justice, equality, and inclusivity by challenging dominant cultural narratives about what constitutes "normal" relationships.
Morality
Philosophers have long debated the nature and significance of morality, with various schools of thought proposing different theories. Some believe that morality is objective, universal, and absolute, while others argue that it is subjective, context-dependent, and relative. In either case, moral principles provide guidance for how we should act towards one another, inform our decision-making processes, and shape our collective beliefs and attitudes. The concept of queer love as a form of moral philosophy suggests that it operates within this framework by emphasizing values such as compassion, kindness, fairness, and generosity.
Enactment
Enactment involves putting ideas into action or making them real through practical application. In the context of queer love, enactment entails creating and sustaining an environment where all parties feel safe, valued, and supported. This includes cultivating trust, listening actively, showing appreciation, being transparent, and providing emotional support when needed. It also requires acknowledging each other's unique perspectives and experiences without judgment or preconceived notions. Through these actions, queer lovers demonstrate their commitment to upholding ethical standards and living according to moral ideals.
In what sense is queer love a form of moral philosophy enacted through intimacy?
Queer love can be seen as a form of moral philosophy enacted through intimacy because it challenges traditional norms of love and relationships that are often based on heteronormative values and cultural expectations. Instead of adhering to these conventions, queer couples may create their own definitions of love and relationships that reflect their individual identities and experiences.