Reading: A Modernist Approach to sexuality

A Modernist Approach to Gender Theory

A modernist approach to the terms related to gender, sexuality, and sexual practice is rooted in Enlightenment ideals of reason, scientific empiricism, and the search for universal truths. Modernism tends to prioritize objectivity and clear categorization and often sees human nature as having an inherent essence that can be comprehensively understood through rational inquiry. Here’s how a modernist might approach these terms:

Emphasis on Biological Determinism

Modernists often view gender and sexuality through the lens of biological determinism. This perspective suggests that biological factors such as genetics and physiology are the primary determinants of one's gender identity and sexual orientation. For instance, modernists might focus on chromosomal differences to define male and female genders, interpreting terms like "transgender" or "intersex" within a medical or biological framework.

Fixed and Universal Categories

Modernism values clear, stable categories that are universally applicable. It tends to approach terms like "homosexual," "heterosexual," and "bisexual" as fixed sexual orientations. The modernist viewpoint might resist more fluid concepts of identity, such as those expressed by "genderfluid" or "non-binary," preferring to fit all phenomena into pre-existing categories.

Objective Realities

The modernist approach holds that there is an objective reality that can be understood through science and rational thought. Terms like "gender dysphoria" are likely approached from a clinical perspective, focusing on diagnostics and treatments based on established medical practices and scientific research.

Linear Progress and Improvement

Modernists believe in progress through science and technology, including the fields of medicine and psychology. They would likely view the process of "transitioning" for transgender individuals as a medical journey that involves clear stages and standardized treatments supported by scientific research.

Essentialist Views on Identity

From a modernist standpoint, terms related to identity such as "gender identity" and "sexual orientation" might be seen as having an essence that can be definitively understood, often linked to physical or psychological traits that are considered inherent or natural.

Value on Universal Truths

Modernism's quest for universal truths extends to its handling of concepts like "inclusion" and "safe spaces." It might focus on creating environments that universally protect all individuals, based on principles that are widely recognized as fundamentally just or necessary, often emphasizing equality under the law and equal rights.

Skepticism Towards Social Constructionism

Unlike postmodernism, modernism is skeptical of views that attribute the origins of gender and sexuality entirely to social constructs. Instead, it tends to look for underlying natural or universal principles that govern these aspects of human life.

Reductionism

Modernist approaches might simplify complex identities to make them easier to analyze and understand. For example, "queer" might be reduced to a simple category of non-heteronormative identities without acknowledging the broader cultural and political implications that a postmodern view might emphasize.

Rational Discourse

Modernism values rational discourse and often seeks to debate and discuss issues like gender and sexuality in rational terms, using logical arguments to support or refute particular views about these terms.

Focus on Functionality and Role

In a modernist view, terms might be connected to their functional societal roles. For example, "ally" might be defined as specific actions or behaviors that support LGBTQ+ communities in straightforward and practical ways.

In summary, a modernist approach to these terms tends to be more static, categorically defined, and rooted in biological and universal principles. It often relies on traditional scientific methods and understandings to define and address issues related to gender, sexuality, and sexual practices.