The concept of non-binary temporality refers to the idea that time is not linear and can be experienced differently from person to person. It challenges traditional concepts of time, which are often rooted in Western, patriarchal, and colonialist ideologies. Non-binary temporality acknowledges that different cultures have varying ways of experiencing and understanding time, and that this understanding can impact how people interact with each other and make choices. By exploring non-binary temporalities, individuals can gain insight into alternative pathways for identity development, relational engagement, and ethical development.
One way non-binary temporality can illuminate these pathways is through the notion of the past, present, and future being intertwined and coexisting simultaneously. This concept challenges the notion that the past is static and the future is unknowable, as both are fluid and constantly changing. When we recognize that all three points in time exist at once, we can see that our actions in the present can affect the past and the future, creating a cyclical process of cause and effect. This can lead to a more holistic view of ourselves and others, as well as a deeper awareness of the interconnectedness of all things.
Non-binary temporality can help us explore how power dynamics play out across different temporal frameworks.
Many dominant cultural narratives assume that time moves chronologically forward, with progress being measured by the accumulation of knowledge and technology.
Some indigenous cultures see time as cyclical or spiral, emphasizing the importance of returning to traditional values and practices to maintain balance and harmony. By recognizing these differences, we can challenge hegemonic systems of power that prioritize certain temporal perspectives over others.
Non-binary temporality also invites us to consider the role of language in shaping our perceptions of time. Different languages have distinct ways of talking about time, such as tense (past, present, future) or aspect (continuous, perfect). These distinctions shape how we experience time and construct meaning from it. Non-binary temporality encourages us to explore multiple linguistic frameworks and their implications for identity formation and relational engagement.
Non-binary temporality can illuminate ethical development by revealing alternative pathways for decision-making. If we view time as cyclical rather than linear, we may be more attuned to the consequences of our actions and the impact they will have on future generations. We may also be more open to considering long-term solutions to current problems, acknowledging that change is not always immediate but requires sustained effort over time. This understanding can lead to a deeper commitment to social justice, environmental stewardship, and collective wellbeing.
Exploring non-binary temporality allows us to reimagine time, identity, relationships, and ethics beyond dominant cultural narratives. It invites us to question assumptions about progress, power dynamics, and language, and opens up new possibilities for collective action towards a more equitable and sustainable world.
How does non-binary temporality illuminate alternative pathways for identity, relational engagement, and ethical development?
Temporality refers to our perception of time and how it is structured into past, present, and future. Non-binary temporality suggests that there are more than two ways to perceive time and that these can vary from individual to individual. This perspective has been explored by many researchers who argue that different cultures may have distinct temporal frameworks which influence their sense of self, relationships with others, and moral values (Levin & McMahon, 2016).