One of the most challenging aspects of understanding non-binary temporality is how it relates to issues of time that involve more than one individual. This essay will explore the ways that non-binary temporality interacts with questions of temporal plurality, ethical self-fashioning, and the experience of becoming.
Non-binary temporality refers to the concept that there are multiple perspectives on time, beyond just the standard linear view of past, present, and future. It suggests that different individuals may have different experiences of time, depending on their cultural background, personal beliefs, and life circumstances.
Some people may see time as cyclical, while others may believe in a linear progression from birth to death. In addition, non-binary temporality recognizes that time can be experienced subjectively, meaning that each person's perception of time may vary from moment to moment.
Temporal plurality involves the idea that there are multiple dimensions of time, including chronological, spatial, social, and experiential. Non-binary temporality can interact with this concept by acknowledging that these various types of time can be perceived simultaneously or in different orders.
Someone might experience both chronological and experiential time at once, while another might focus on social time alone.
Ethical self-fashioning refers to the process of constructing oneself as an ethical agent who acts according to principles and values. In relation to non-binary temporality, this means considering how our relationship to time affects our moral choices.
If we believe that time is limited and precious, we may prioritize tasks that seem most important rather than wasting time on less significant activities. Conversely, if we see time as infinite, we might feel less urgency to make decisions quickly.
The experience of becoming involves understanding one's place within the flow of time and changing over time. This includes recognizing how past experiences influence present thoughts and actions, as well as imagining possible future outcomes. With non-binary temporality, it could mean recognizing that different cultures and individuals have different understandings of what it means to become something or someone. It also suggests that change can happen in unexpected ways, such as when someone changes their gender identity or learns new skills.
How does non-binary temporality engage with questions of temporal plurality, ethical self-fashioning, and the experience of becoming?
Non-binary temporality is an approach that challenges traditional ideas about time as linear and chronological. It recognizes the fluidity of time, its complexity, and its interconnectedness with other dimensions such as space, culture, and memory. Non-binary temporality encourages individuals to consider different perspectives on time, including indigenous and postcolonial perspectives, and to recognize the ways in which time shapes our experiences of identity, relationships, and power dynamics.