After Difference: Queer Activism in Italy and Anthropological Theory

Queer activism and anthropology are concerned with difference, but in different ways. Italian queer activists value difference as something that must be produced, while anthropologists find difference in the world and seek to produce an identity between theory and ethnographic material. This book explores problems faced by an activist politics of difference and issues concerning the identity of anthropological reflection.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 01 July 2022
Publisher: Berghahn Books

Queer activism and anthropology are two fields that are deeply intertwined with the concept of difference, yet they approach this concept in distinct and fundamentally different ways. In this book, we explore the perspectives of Italian queer activists who place a significant value on difference as something that must be actively produced, in contrast to the identity politics they encounter in their surrounding environment. On the other hand, anthropologists view difference as an inherent aspect of the world around them and strive to establish a connection between anthropological theory and the ethnographic material that elucidates it.

This book delves into the challenges and complexities faced by an activist politics of difference, while also addressing issues related to the identity of anthropological reflection itself. It seeks to bridge two distinct conceptions of difference while maintaining a sense of separation between them.

One of the central themes of this book is the notion that difference is not a fixed or universal phenomenon, but rather a dynamic and fluid construct that is shaped by a range of social, cultural, and political factors. Queer activists argue that difference should be celebrated and embraced as a source of strength and resilience, rather than being marginalized or erased. They challenge the notion that identity is solely based on fixed categories such as gender, sexuality, and race, and instead advocate for a more expansive and inclusive understanding of identity that encompasses a wide range of experiences and expressions.

Anthropologists, on the other hand, recognize the importance of difference in understanding the complexities of human societies and cultures. They argue that difference should be approached with a critical and reflexive lens, in order to avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes and biases. Anthropologists seek to establish a nuanced and empathetic understanding of the experiences of individuals and communities who differ from their own, in order to promote social justice and equality.

Despite these differences, there are also commonalities between queer activism and anthropology. Both fields are committed to challenging dominant narratives and power structures, and to promoting social change and transformation. Queer activists and anthropologists both recognize the importance of intersectionality, the idea that different forms of oppression and discrimination intersect and reinforce each other, and work to address these issues in their respective fields.

Furthermore, both queer activism and anthropology are deeply rooted in a commitment to social justice and human rights. Queer activists have fought for the recognition of LGBTQ+ rights and the abolition of discrimination and violence against marginalized communities. Anthropologists have also been instrumental in documenting and advocating for the rights of indigenous peoples, women, and other marginalized groups, and in challenging the harmful effects of colonialism and globalization.

In conclusion, queer activism and anthropology are two fields that are fundamentally concerned with the concept of difference, yet they approach this concept in distinct and fundamentally different ways. This book explores the perspectives of Italian queer activists who value difference as something that must be actively produced, in contrast to the identity politics they encounter in their surrounding environment. It also examines the perspectives of anthropologists who view difference as an inherent aspect of the world around them and strive to establish a connection between anthropological theory and the ethnographic material that elucidates it. By bridging these two distinct conceptions of difference while maintaining a sense of separation, this book offers a valuable contribution to the fields of queer activism and anthropology.

ISBN-13: 9781800734524