The concept of "queer temporality" refers to how LGBTQ+ people experience time differently than heterosexuals due to their marginalized social position within society. Queer individuals often experience a sense of urgency in their daily lives due to the threat of discrimination and violence, which can lead them to prioritize immediate gratification and avoid long-term commitments. This has implications for ethical thinking about life planning, obligation, and future-oriented decision-making.
As queer individuals navigate a world that is hostile to their identities, they may feel the need to live in the moment and seize opportunities when they arise. They may be less likely to plan for the future or make decisions based on abstract principles such as morality or duty. Instead, they may focus on what feels right in the present and what brings them pleasure or fulfillment. This approach can lead to greater freedom and authenticity, but it also means that queer individuals may struggle to create stable relationships and meet societal expectations around marriage, children, and other traditional markers of adulthood.
Queer temporality also shapes perceptions of obligation and responsibility. Queer individuals may see themselves as having fewer obligations to family, community, and society due to the lack of acceptance they receive from these groups. They may reject the idea that they owe anything to institutions or structures that have historically oppressed them.
This attitude can also limit the potential for collective action and political change.
Queer temporality can affect decision-making by making queer individuals more focused on immediate rewards and pleasures. They may be more likely to take risks or pursue unconventional paths in order to experience novelty and excitement. This can lead to exciting new possibilities, but it can also create instability and uncertainty. As a result, queer individuals may struggle with long-term commitments and sustained effort towards goals that require patience and discipline.
Queer temporality is shaped by marginalization and urgency, leading to different approaches to life planning, obligation, and decision-making than those experienced by heterosexuals. While queer individuals may benefit from living authentically in the moment, their experiences can also limit their ability to build lasting relationships and contribute to broader social justice movements.
How does queer temporality shape ethical thinking about life planning, obligation, and future-oriented decision-making?
Queer temporalities refer to the way that non-heteronormative individuals perceive and interact with time. This differs from heteronormativity, which is based on a linear conception of time where individuals move toward specific goals over time. Queer temporalities are more fluid, unpredictable, and often involve an emphasis on the present moment rather than the future.