Identity: Self vs. Society
People have different conceptions of themselves, which are shaped by their experiences, values, beliefs, preferences, feelings, and desires. This sense of self is unique to each individual, but it also depends on how they see themselves within society.
An individual who identifies as transgender might feel like they were born into the wrong body, while another may not have any issues with their gender expression at all. Likewise, someone who identifies as homosexual could find that there are no moral conflicts between being attracted to members of the same sex and adhering to religious or cultural norms, whereas another person might struggle with this due to familial or societal expectations.
What unites these individuals is that they have all experienced some form of discrimination based on their identity, whether explicit or implicit.
Sexual Orientation
In terms of sexual orientation, one can be gay, lesbian, bisexual, heterosexual, or questioning. These labels refer to one's attraction toward others based on their biological sex or gender identity.
If you are a man who feels romantically and physically attracted to men, then your sexual orientation would be homosexual (or "gay" for short), whereas if you are a woman who finds herself attracted to both males and females, your sexual orientation would be bisexual. The latter is often seen as more ambiguous because it implies that you could potentially be drawn towards either gender, which has led many people to label it as "confusing."
Recent research suggests that bisexuals experience less internalized stigma than gays and lesbians do because they tend to identify less strongly with one particular group and exhibit greater flexibility in behavior.
Gender Expression
Gender expression refers to how one expresses themselves through clothing, hairstyle, mannerisms, etc., that align with their perceived gender identity rather than society's expectations for them. Transgender individuals often undergo hormone therapy or surgery to change their physical appearance to match the gender with which they identify. This can include changing the shape of breasts, facial features, voice pitch, body contour, or genitalia. Some even choose to take testosterone or estrogen supplements to create secondary sex characteristics that better reflect their true gender identity. Such changes have become increasingly accepted by mainstream culture, although there are still some social stigmas attached to transgenderism.
Ethical Principles
Ethics is a branch of philosophy that deals with moral principles governing human conduct. LGBT individuals face ethical dilemmas related to their personal identities when they come into contact with societal norms that conflict with these values.
Some religions may consider homosexuality sinful, while others view it as natural and acceptable. Similarly, cultural traditions might prioritize heteronormativity over other sexual orientations, leading to discrimination against those who deviate from this expectation.
Many LGBT people argue that they should be judged based on their actions alone and not simply on their sexual orientation or gender identity. They believe that love is love regardless of its source and should be celebrated instead of repressed or condemned.
Reconciliation: A Personal Journey
For an individual reconciling their personal identity with societal norms, expectations, and ethical principles, it's essential to understand themselves first before trying to fit in with society. It takes time and effort to figure out what one wants and needs without compromising one's integrity or authenticity. This process can involve therapy, support groups, spiritual practices, or self-reflection exercises to help them find acceptance within themselves despite external pressures.
Each person must decide how much they want to align with the status quo versus standing up for what feels right to them personally.
How do LGBT individuals philosophically reconcile personal identity with societal norms, expectations, and ethical principles?
LGBT people have long struggled with the concept of self-identity versus society's perceptions of what is considered "normal" and acceptable. This struggle has led to deep introspection and soul searching for many members of this community as they grapple with questions about their place in the world. Many LGBT individuals choose to embrace their identities despite the challenges presented by societal norms and expectations.