What is time? Can we measure it objectively? How do we perceive it subjectively? Time passes; that's all we know for sure. It is an abstract concept, and yet, we can observe its effects in our lives. Everyone experiences time differently, but how can time be explained without recourse to physics or mathematics? Philosophy explores these and many more questions about time, often focusing on the nature of temporality itself.
One aspect of time which has been neglected in philosophy is queerness. Queer theory suggests that sexual identity cannot be understood outside of social relations and power structures. Therefore, what does this mean for the temporality and relationality of desire and lived experience? This article will explore this question through three philosophers who have addressed the issue before.
Gilles Deleuze and Felix Guattari propose a new way of thinking about temporality called "rhizomatic time." In their book 'A Thousand Plateaus,' they argue that instead of viewing time as linear, we should think of it as a network or web of intersecting lines. The past, present, and future are not separate entities but interconnected parts of a whole. They suggest that this idea helps us understand queer desires since sexuality is always changing and never fixed. We move between different identities, attractions, and relationships throughout our lives, just like rhizomes grow horizontally and vertically.
They emphasize the importance of creating non-hierarchical connections between people - akin to the root system in a plant. This allows for greater freedom of expression and fluidity within society.
Jane Bennett offers an alternative take on temporality with her concept of 'vibrant matter.' She argues that objects are not static but alive with energy and potentiality.
A rock may appear motionless, but it vibrates at its atomic level; therefore, everything contains a degree of movement. Vibrant matter can interact with other things to create complex systems, much like how human bodies respond sexually when aroused. Bennett suggests that this perspective shifts our understanding of time away from a linear progression towards something more dynamic and ever-changing. It also challenges traditional binary oppositions such as male/female and hetero/homosexual because all things exist within a spectrum of energy.
Michel Foucault's notion of 'discipline' provides insight into how power structures shape our understanding of time. In his book 'Discipline and Punish,' he describes how institutions use physical and psychological methods to control individuals.
Schools enforce strict schedules so students stay focused during class; hospitals regulate patient visits to prevent overcrowding. These rules govern behavior, making them seem natural or unquestionable.
They don't always align with individual desires since we may crave spontaneity instead of routine. Therefore, queer desire requires breaking free from these disciplinary norms to explore new ways of being in the world.
The study of time has implications for philosophical questions about queerness. Deleuze and Guattari suggest an alternative model whereby temporality is rhizomatic rather than linear, while Bennett emphasizes the dynamism of objects in their vibrancy.
Foucault highlights the role of discipline in shaping our perception of time. By exploring these ideas further, we can challenge traditional notions of identity and sexuality.
It allows us to create better relationships with ourselves and others based on mutual respect and care.
What philosophical questions emerge from the temporality and relationality of queer desire and lived experience?
The philosophical question that emerges from queer desire is about the relationship between time and identity, which is intricately intertwined with the concept of temporality and relationality. Queerness can be seen as a temporal and relational phenomenon that is not limited to specific times or places but is constantly changing and evolving. This suggests that queer identities are dynamic and fluid, shaped by various factors such as culture, politics, history, and power dynamics.