A philosopher once said that "To be human is to desire". This means that humans are defined by their desires, which they feel for different things. But what does it mean ontologically to desire without reference to gendered or fixed categories? Ontology refers to the study of being or existence. When something exists, it has certain properties or characteristics that make up its essence or nature.
An apple tree exists because it has certain characteristics such as leaves, trunk, branches, fruits, etc. Similarly, when someone desires something, they have certain qualities or traits that define their desire.
This definition can vary depending on whether one uses gendered or fixed categories.
When people talk about their desires, they often refer to them in terms of masculine or feminine characteristics.
A man might say he wants to be strong and powerful, while a woman might say she wants to be beautiful and graceful. These categorizations create expectations about how men and women should behave and express themselves sexually. It also perpetuates stereotypes that reinforce traditional gender roles and norms.
Some philosophers argue that desire transcends gender or fixed categories. They suggest that all people have universal desires that are not restricted by social constructs or expectations. According to this view, we all have basic needs for love, affection, intimacy, companionship, touch, pleasure, and so on. These needs are inherent in our biological and psychological makeup and do not depend on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Another way to think about desire is through the concept of eroticism. Eroticism involves the exploration of sensuality and physical gratification without regard for labels or boundaries. This approach encourages individuals to experiment with different types of relationships and experiences without being limited by preconceived ideas about what's "normal" or acceptable. In this framework, desire becomes more fluid and open-ended, allowing us to explore new possibilities and develop deeper connections with others.
Understanding desire without reference to gendered or fixed categories requires breaking down societal expectations and embracing universal human needs. By doing so, we can create a world where everyone feels free to express their desires authentically and find fulfillment in their relationships and intimate encounters.
What does it mean ontologically to desire without reference to gendered or fixed categories?
Desire is an innate human drive that can be defined as a strong motivation for achieving something of value. This definition is not limited by gendered or fixed categories because everyone has desires regardless of their sex, race, culture, etc. Desire is not simply about what one wants; it is also about why they want it and how they pursue it.