Gender and Meaning Discussion Board

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Anthropology

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Nov 24, 2024

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Gender and Meaning Discussion Board 1. In the U.S. gender discourse, three common stories are often told: a. The Nature Story: This story suggests that gender differences are rooted in biology and that men and women are inherently different due to their biological makeup. b. The Nurture Story: This narrative emphasizes the role of socialization and culture in shaping gender roles and behaviours. It argues that societal expectations and upbringing influence individuals' gender identities and behaviours. c. The Individual Choice Story: This story focuses on personal agency and suggests that individuals have the freedom to choose their gender identity and roles. "Biologizing" gender refers to the tendency to attribute gender differences primarily to biological factors, often oversimplifying complex interactions between biology and culture. Other things that are biologized in U.S. culture include intelligence, race, and sexual orientation, among others. 2. According to Walter Williams, the three "cultural spaces" through which third gender categories are discursively justified and culturally sanctioned are: a. Religious or Spiritual Space: In Native American societies, some tribes recognize Two- Spirit individuals who embody both masculine and feminine qualities, often seen as having a spiritual significance. In Indian society, Hijra groups may be associated with certain religious rituals or ceremonies. b. Economic Space: In some societies, third gender categories are associated with specific economic roles. For example, Hijras in India historically held roles as performers during ceremonies, and this economic role justified their existence.

c. Kinship or Family Space: Family acceptance and recognition of third gender individuals are significant. In some Native American cultures, Two-Spirit individuals are integrated into familial structures with a unique status. In Indian society, some Hijras form their own kinship networks. 3. The claim that the U.S. has no culturally sanctioned third gender categories is somewhat complex. While the U.S. lacks explicit and widely recognized third gender categories comparable to those in some indigenous cultures or societies like India, there are emerging discussions around non-binary and genderqueer identities. These discussions challenge the binary understanding of gender and are gaining cultural recognition, suggesting a shift in societal perspectives. However, the level of cultural sanctioning may vary, and acceptance is not universal. Some argue that the U.S. is in the process of acknowledging and culturally sanctioning non-binary gender identities.

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