MDSA01H3 Chapter Notes - Chapter 9: Libido, Rooster Teeth, Hypersexuality
Document Summary
Queer theory: interdisciplinary perspective that seeks to disrupt socially constructed systems of meaning surrounding human sexuality. Sexuality: enduring emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction toward others based upon their gender and sex. Americans traditionally interpret sexuality as heterosexual/homosexual, however there"s also alternatives like bisexuality. Assuming that the heterosexual/homosexual binary represents sexuality results in unequal distribution of social power. Heterosexual/homosexual are social constructs like masculine/feminine. They allow for the social classification, essentializing, and (dis)empowerment of the groups that identify with them. Heteronormativity: diverse set of social practices that function to (1) perpetuate the heterosexual/homosexual binary, and to (2) privilege heterosexuality. Heteronormative social practices maintain the distinction between heterosexuality and homosexuality out of necessity. Makes heterosexuality seem normal/desired. Binary must exist to make heterosexuality seem normal because homosexuality exists as the abnormal opposite. Sexual othering: process of stigmatizing homosexuality (or any non- heterosexual practice) as abnormal to privilege heterosexuality. Feminist scholar adrienne rich suggests these privileges are so engrained in.