What is non-binary temporality?
Non-binary temporality refers to the idea that time can be experienced differently for different individuals based on their unique circumstances and experiences. It challenges the traditional Western conception of linear, chronological time as the only way of experiencing it. Instead, non-binary temporalities recognize multiple ways of perceiving and living through time, including circular, spiral, and cyclical patterns. In this framework, time is seen as more fluid and flexible, rather than rigid and fixed. This concept has implications for how we think about planning, expectations, and life-course decisions, which are often rooted in assumptions about the predictability and stability of time.
How does non-binary temporality complicate the ethics of planning?
Planning involves anticipating future events and making preparations accordingly.
When we understand time as non-linear, we must acknowledge that the future is always changing and unpredictable. Rather than attempting to control or master time, we must learn to navigate its uncertainties and adapt to new situations as they arise.
If we know that some life choices may have unexpected consequences down the road, we might choose to take a risk now with the understanding that we will deal with those consequences later. This means that we need to rethink our approach to decision-making and prioritize flexibility over certainty.
How does non-binary temporality complicate expectations?
Expectations involve projecting what will happen in the future based on past experience and current knowledge. When we consider non-binary temporalities, however, we realize that the past cannot necessarily predict the future and that our predictions may not be accurate. We must therefore be open to alternative outcomes and be willing to adjust our expectations as necessary. This can be difficult because it requires us to let go of preconceived ideas and embrace change. It also raises questions about whether we should hold ourselves accountable for failing to meet our own expectations, given the inherent uncertainty of non-linear time.
How does non-binary temporality complicate life-course decisions?
Life-course decisions are major choices that shape our lives for years to come, such as choosing a career path or starting a family. Non-binary temporality challenges traditional models of planning these decisions, which often prioritize stability and security above all else. Instead, we must recognize that life can be unstable and unpredictable, and that we cannot always anticipate what will happen next. We must instead learn to navigate uncertainty and make decisions based on our current needs and values, without assuming that they will remain constant over time. This involves making trade-offs between short-term gratification and long-term goals, and accepting that some decisions may have unexpected consequences down the road.
How does non-binary temporality complicate the ethics of planning, expectation, and life-course decisions?
In recent years, there has been increasing recognition of the importance of incorporating multiple temporal perspectives into our understanding of human behavior, including that of non-binary individuals. Non-binary temporality refers to the awareness of time as being nonlinear, multidimensional, and complex rather than linear, sequential, and predictable. This can lead to complications in how we approach ethical decision making, planning for the future, and navigating life course transitions.