The purpose of this article is to explore the historical and contemporary context of LGBTQ+ exclusions within Western philosophical thought, particularly the ways in which such exclusions have manifested themselves through language and discourse. We will begin by tracing the origins of heteronormativity in ancient Greece, exploring how the notion of "the natural" was used to justify oppressive attitudes toward non-heterosexual individuals. This analysis will then be extended into the modern era, wherein homophobic ideologies are still prevalent, but often take on more subtle forms. In particular, we will examine the role that the history of philosophy itself has played in perpetuating these ideas, as well as the implications that such exclusionary practices continue to hold for contemporary philosophy.
Throughout much of human history, sexuality has been understood as a binary - either male or female. As such, those who do not fit neatly into one of these categories have been marginalized, excluded, and even criminalized. Indeed, it wasn't until the late 19th century that the term "homosexual" came into being, and it wasn't until the early 20th century that homosexuality began to be understood as an inherent part of human nature rather than a pathology. Even now, however, many philosophers remain hesitant to address questions of gender and sexuality in their work, often relying instead on abstract concepts and universalizing tendencies. This can lead to a tendency towards erasure, with certain groups (particularly LGBTQ+ people) being written out of the story altogether.
It is important to recognize that this erasure is a form of structural violence, one that has real consequences for those who experience it. By ignoring the complexities of lived experiences, philosophers risk reinforcing harmful stereotypes and perpetuating oppressive systems.
When discussing issues like consent, relationships, love, desire, or pleasure without acknowledging the unique challenges faced by non-heterosexual individuals, philosophy risks becoming irrelevant and insensitive. In addition, by failing to examine its own history of exclusion, philosophy may fail to recognize how past mistakes have shaped present beliefs and attitudes.
Despite these obstacles, there are reasons for optimism. Recently, some scholars have begun to turn their attention towards issues of identity politics within philosophy, recognizing the need to include voices from marginalized communities. One such scholar is Judith Butler, whose work on gender performativity has been influential in challenging traditional understandings of sex and gender. Similarly, queer theorists have sought to disrupt binary categories by exploring the fluidity of gender and sexuality. These approaches can help us to see beyond simple dichotomies and embrace the messiness of human existence.
It will be essential for philosophers to continue engaging with questions of sex and sexuality in a thoughtful and inclusive manner. This requires not only recognizing the ways in which our thinking has been constrained by traditional norms, but also taking steps to actively challenge those norms. Only through this kind of critical reflection can we hope to build a more just and equitable world.
What ethical lessons arise from examining the historical moral exclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals from philosophy itself?
The historical moral exclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals from philosophy has led to a lack of representation and recognition for their contributions to the field. This exclusion can also be seen as an implicit rejection of certain ideas and perspectives that have been advanced by LGBTQ+ philosophers, which can have negative implications for the development of philosophy as a discipline.