The term "asexual" describes individuals who experience little to no sexual attraction towards others. This identity is often misunderstood, due to its nontraditional nature. Many people believe that it is impossible for an individual to not feel sexual attraction at all, or that those who identify as asexual are broken or lacking in some way.
Research suggests that asexuality is a legitimate sexual orientation and can be just as valid as any other form of sexual attraction. Similarly, the term "aromantic" refers to individuals who do not experience romantic attraction towards others. This identity is also frequently misconstrued as being synonymous with celibacy or abstinence, which is not accurate.
Many societies have strict scripts for how humans should interact sexually and relationally.
In Western cultures, it is common to assume that everyone experiences sexual desire and wants to engage in intimacy through marriage or committed relationships. These expectations are often unspoken but permeate every aspect of life, from media representation to family dynamics. But what happens when someone does not fit into these normative scripts? How do they navigate their identities in such a world? And what does this tell us about human relationality as a whole?
One philosophical approach to understanding sexuality and relationships is the concept of desire. Desire is defined as an intense feeling of wanting something, often related to pleasure. In most cases, society views desire as inherently positive, leading many to question why anyone would choose to live without it.
Some argue that desire absence reveals hidden facets of our humanity that we overlook due to cultural conditioning. By exploring these possibilities, we may gain new insights into what it means to be human and challenge traditional conceptions of sexuality.
Asexual individuals may still experience emotional attachment or friendship, but these feelings are distinct from sexual desire. Rather than viewing these connections as inferior or second-best, we can see them as valid ways of forming bonds with others. Similarly, aromantic people may form deep, meaningful friendships based on shared interests or values rather than romance. This challenges our assumptions about what makes a relationship "special" or worthwhile.
The idea of desire absence invites us to rethink how we define intimacy and connection in our lives. It pushes us to consider what truly matters and how we prioritize different types of relationships. By embracing diversity within our community, we can create a more inclusive and accepting environment for all individuals - regardless of their identity.
How do we challenge societal perception of asexual and aromantic identities philosophically: what does desire absence—or desire outside the normative script—tell us about human relationality?
Desire absence can tell us that human relationality is not limited by sexual orientation, gender identity, or romantic interest. It suggests that there are other ways for people to relate to each other beyond heteronormativity. This challenges the societal perception that these characteristics determine one's worthiness as an individual or their ability to form meaningful relationships.