MDSA01H3 Chapter Notes - Chapter 9: Queer Theory, Heteronormativity, Heterosexism
Document Summary
Queer theory = seeks to disrupt socially constructed systems of human sexuality. Sexuality = individual emotional, romantic, sexual attraction (based upon other"s gender + sex) Functions as a shortcut to describe sexual drives. Heteronormativity (heterosexism) = system of inequality (derived from homosexual / heterosexual binary) Heteronormative practices = encourage people to identify with heterosexuality (from an early age) Social practices that maintain heterosexual / homosexual divide = privilege heterosexuality. Heterosexuality = normal + desirable (opposite + contrast to homosexuality) Sexual othering = stigmatizing homosexualiy as abnormal = priviledge heterosexuality. Privilege access to social practices: marriage, military service, insurance benefits, medical visitation rights. Queer theorists = work against the normalization of heterosexuality + not individual heterosexuals. Queerness & visibility i: sexual stereotypes in american media. Heteronormative systems = maintain binary of sexuality. Persuade us to sort sexual practices into one of two categories.
