Trans embodiment refers to the experience of one's gender identity that differs from the biological sex assigned at birth. It is a phenomenon that has been observed for centuries, but it gained attention recently due to increased awareness and advocacy efforts. Trans individuals may undergo various types of transition, including hormone therapy, surgery, and social transition, which involve changes in appearance and behavior. These transformations raise philosophical questions about selfhood, bodily transformation, and continuity of identity. This essay explores these implications while examining the concepts of ontology and trans embodiment. Ontology is the study of what exists and how things exist. In relation to trans embodiment, this involves understanding whether there is an essential difference between biological sex and gender identity. The question of bodily transformation asks whether physical alterations affect personal identity.
The concept of continuity of identity considers if trans people retain their past selves during the process of becoming trans. Throughout this discussion, I will examine the philosophies of Immanuel Kant, John Locke, and Thomas Hobbes.
Kant argues that our minds create reality through categorization, perception, and reasoning. He believes that we cannot know anything outside of our mind, as knowledge comes from our senses. Therefore, he concludes that biological sex is not inherent but constructed by the mind. Accordingly, trans individuals are not simply changing their bodies; they are redefining them based on their own internal logic. Kant suggests that gender identity is a matter of willpower rather than nature, making it possible for trans individuals to transform themselves physically and mentally.
This position raises doubts about the consistency of personal identity over time since it can be subjective and flexible.
Locke advocates that the mind is a blank slate at birth, acquiring knowledge through experience. His theory implies that trans individuals do not change their identities but gain new experiences that shape who they become. Transitioning may involve learning about one's self-identity and exploring new possibilities before committing to a permanent transition.
Some might argue that the changes in appearance or behavior are too drastic to consider them merely experimental.
Locke's view does not explain why trans individuals feel a strong sense of belonging to their chosen gender.
Hobbes posits that life is essentially conflictual, with individuals pursuing power and security for their survival. In his philosophy, there is no universal truth, morality, or meaning beyond individual desires. This perspective implies that trans embodiment is a manifestation of personal freedom without external constraints. It allows people to express their true selves despite social norms or expectations. On the other hand, Hobbesian philosophy leaves little room for continuity of identity, as each person is defined solely by what they desire. Thus, trans individuals could reinvent themselves repeatedly without any connection to past versions of themselves.
These philosophers provide different perspectives on trans embodiment's implications regarding ontology, bodily transformation, and continuity of identity. Kant suggests that trans individuals construct reality and redefine their bodies, while Locke argues that transition involves learning and experimentation.
Hobbes views it as an expression of personal freedom without predetermined meanings. The choice of which approach to take depends on one's values and beliefs about identity, nature, and society. Regardless of the position taken, trans embodiment raises thought-provoking questions about human existence and its complexities.
What philosophical implications emerge from trans embodiment regarding the ontology of selfhood, bodily transformation, and continuity of identity?
The phenomenon of transgenderism has recently been receiving increasing attention due to its relevance to multiple fields such as philosophy, psychology, and sociology. One of the questions that have been raised by this topic is how it affects our understanding of the self and identity. Transgender individuals experience a disconnect between their gender identity and biological sex, which can lead to a sense of discomfort and dysphoria.