As a human being living in this world, everyone is assigned a gender based on their biological features that determine the physical appearance.
The feeling of belonging to a particular gender differs from one individual to another and sometimes, it can be different from what is perceived. This situation gives rise to a phenomenon called "transgender" which refers to individuals who do not identify themselves with their biologically assigned sex and want to transition into the opposite gender. The trans community faces numerous challenges such as discrimination, rejection, violence, lack of acceptance, and isolation but still strive to live up to their potential despite all these hurdles. Their journey is full of struggles and difficulties as they have to go through medical procedures to bring about changes in their bodies.
I shall discuss how philosophical insights about authenticity and bodily integrity are revealed through the lived experience of trans embodiment. Trans people face an identity crisis when they try to adjust to the body they were born into without being accepted for who they are. They feel trapped in a cage that they cannot escape and hence have to take drastic measures by undergoing hormonal treatment and surgery to gain a body that suits them better. This process helps them to live life freely while others around them may find it difficult to understand or relate to the change.
Philosophy teaches us that one must embrace their authentic selves and be true to oneself. It encourages people to be who they truly are without any fear or hesitation. In the case of transgender individuals, they need to make significant alterations to their biological features to match their inner self and reveal their real identity. Such a transformation can only happen through bodily integrity which means having control over one's body and choosing what to do with it. Therefore, trans embodiment offers deep insight into the concept of bodily integrity.
The notion of bodily integrity has always been crucial in philosophy because it provides insight into human existence. It tells us that every individual should have complete ownership of their body and decide on what happens to it.
Trans people face challenges here too since they require approval from the society for certain actions such as getting hormones or doing a surgery. Their freedom is limited due to societal norms and prejudices against gender fluidity. But, despite all this, they still push themselves to undergo these procedures to get rid of the discomfort caused by their biology.
Philosophical insights about authenticity and bodily integrity are revealed through the lived experience of trans embodiment. Trans people strive to be accepted for who they are regardless of social norms and expectations. They show that everyone deserves to live up to their potential and lead a fulfilling life. Philosophy helps them realize their goals by reminding them to embrace their authenticity and gain bodily integrity.
What philosophical insights about authenticity and bodily integrity are revealed through the lived experience of trans embodiment?
Transgender individuals have experienced different levels of acceptance from society, which has led to various forms of discrimination and violence. Their right to self-determine their gender identity is still being debated, while they face difficulties regarding healthcare and access to transition-related services. The medical community tends to pathologize gender variance as mental illness that needs to be treated.