The concept of selfhood is often understood as the idea that one has an individual sense of identity, purpose, and personality that defines who they are and how they relate to others. This notion can be reconfigured in LGBTQ+ philosophical reflections on identity and embodiment, which explore how gender and sexuality interact with physical characteristics and social norms. In this article, I will explain the main arguments from queer theorists about what it means to be oneself when one's body does not conform to societal expectations.
Let's define some key terms. 'LGBTQ+' stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, Pansexual, Polyamorous, Agender, Bigender, Demisexual, and more categories of non-heteronormative identities. 'Philosophy' refers to a systematic study of knowledge, reasoning, and wisdom. 'Reflection' means thinking deeply about something and considering different viewpoints. 'Embodiment' involves the material reality of being human and living in a physical world. 'Identity' describes how someone perceives themselves, including their gender, race, ethnicity, age, and other attributes. 'Intimacy' relates to closeness or connection between people.
We will look at two examples of how the concepts of selfhood, identity, and embodiment intersect in the context of LGBTQ+ thought. One approach comes from Judith Butler, who argues that genders are performed rather than innate traits, and that bodily practices such as clothing and movement shape how individuals express their identity. Another example is Julia Serano, who writes that transgender people may feel like they have mismatched bodies because society forces them to conform to binary gender stereotypes.
Butler believes that gender is a social construct that changes over time and varies across cultures. She suggests that gender expression depends on factors like power structures, historical context, cultural norms, and personal preferences. This perspective challenges traditional ideas of fixed gender roles based on biological sex.
Some people identify with a gender opposite to what their anatomical sex would suggest (i.e., cisgender) while others may reject binary labels altogether (i.e., agender).
Serano explains that many transgender people experience "dysphoria" due to body dysmorphia caused by societal expectations of masculinity or femininity. She notes that nonbinary identities exist beyond male/female binaries and require recognition outside of heteronormative assumptions about sex and sexuality. According to Serano, cisgenderism creates an illusory belief that everyone fits neatly into these categories, which can lead to discrimination against those who do not.
We will explore ways to rethink selfhood in light of these insights. Queer theorists argue that embodiment involves more than just physical appearance but also includes interpersonal connections and emotional experiences. Intimacy between LGBTQ+ people often centers around shared struggles for acceptance rather than romantic relationships, creating new forms of identity-based community.
Some scholars propose deconstructing concepts such as 'objectification' or 'sexual object' from traditional understandings of desire, arguing instead for a more fluid model wherein individuals are seen as complex beings capable of multiple forms of intimacy.
This article has explored how queer philosophies challenge traditional views of selfhood and emphasize the importance of embodied experience. By recognizing gender expression as a social construct and advocating for inclusive language, we can create a world where all bodies feel validated regardless of their biological makeup or cultural norms.
How is the concept of selfhood reconfigured in LGBTQ+ philosophical reflections on identity and embodiment?
In contemporary philosophy and social sciences, gender, sexuality, and embodiment have been central topics for reflection, debate, and research. The concepts of "self" and "identity" are also part of these discussions, especially when linked to the categories of "LGBTQ+" individuals.