Questioning Sexuality: From Psychoanalysis to Gender Theory and Beyond

Gavin Rae challenges Western thinking on sexuality by proposing an alternative model called sexuality as constellation, which rethinks the problematic by turning to Walter Benjamins notion of concepts as constellations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 31 August 2024
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Western thinking on sexuality has historically affirmed a binary division between two sexes, each defined by unique fixed attributes that delineate its essence, and a privileging of the masculine over the feminine and heteronormative relations over alternatives. By engaging with psychoanalytic theory, phenomenology, feminist and gender theory, and the new materialisms, Gavin Rae shows how this model came under sustained and heterogeneous attack in the twentieth century. Rather than affirm one of these critical trajectories, Rae rethinks the problematic by turning to Walter Benjamins notion of concepts as constellations to develop an alternative model called sexuality as constellation.

Western thinking on sexuality has long been shaped by a binary division between two sexes, each defined by unique fixed attributes that define its essence. This division has also privileged the masculine over the feminine and heteronormative relations over alternatives. However, in the twentieth century, this model came under sustained and heterogeneous attack. Gavin Rae explores this attack by engaging with psychoanalytic theory, phenomenology, feminist and gender theory, and the new materialisms.

One of the key challenges to the binary division between two sexes is the notion of concepts as constellations. Walter Benjamin's concept of concepts as constellations suggests that concepts are not fixed entities but are rather dynamic and interconnected. This means that concepts can be interpreted in multiple ways and can be influenced by a wide range of factors.

Rae uses this concept to develop an alternative model called sexuality as constellation. This model recognizes that sexuality is not a fixed entity but is rather a complex and dynamic phenomenon that is shaped by a wide range of factors, including social, cultural, and biological factors.

One of the key aspects of sexuality as constellation is the recognition of the diversity of sexual experiences and identities. Rae argues that sexuality is not a binary phenomenon but is rather a spectrum of experiences and identities. This means that there are many different ways to experience and express sexuality, and that there is no one "right" way to be sexual.

Another key aspect of sexuality as constellation is the recognition of the power dynamics that shape sexual relationships. Rae argues that sexual relationships are not always equal and that there can be power imbalances between partners. This can lead to sexual violence and other forms of harm.

To address these power dynamics, Rae proposes a number of strategies. One of these strategies is the promotion of consent and communication. Rae argues that consent is essential to any sexual relationship and that partners should be able to communicate their desires and boundaries.

Another strategy is the promotion of diversity and inclusion. Rae argues that sexual relationships should be open to people of all genders, sexual orientations, and identities. This can help to reduce the stigma and discrimination that can be associated with sexual activity.

Finally, Rae proposes the promotion of sexual health and well-being. Rae argues that sexual health and well-being are essential to the overall health and well-being of individuals and communities. This can include the promotion of safe sex practices, the treatment of sexual health conditions, and the promotion of mental health and well-being.

In conclusion, Western thinking on sexuality has historically affirmed a binary division between two sexes, each defined by unique fixed attributes that delineate its essence, and a privileging of the masculine over the feminine and heteronormative relations over alternatives. However, in the twentieth century, this model came under sustained and heterogeneous attack. Gavin Rae explores this attack by engaging with psychoanalytic theory, phenomenology, feminist and gender theory, and the new materialisms. His alternative model, sexuality as constellation, recognizes the diversity of sexual experiences and identities, the power dynamics that shape sexual relationships, and the need to promote consent and communication, diversity and inclusion, and sexual health and well-being. By adopting this model, we can work towards a more just and equitable society that values and respects the diversity of sexual experiences and identities.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399535090