WHO I AM VERSUS WHO I FEEL I AM: AN ETHICAL REFLECTION ON SEX, GENDER, AND INCLUSION IN CONTEMPORARY SOCIETY

Abstract

This paper examines the phenomenon of gender changeability, the postmodernists’ proposal of the determination of sexual identity independently of biological considerations, and the moral implications of the freedom to choose how one identifies. Before postmodernism, discussions on sex and gender identity assumed a heteronormative or binary character. Today, arguments, which have cultural and relativistic undertones are being made for a gender-sensitive society that recognises individuals’ freedom and right to choose their identity outside the binary framework. This position is often justified by the need for sexual indifference, the freedom to identify based on subjective feelings and inclusion, social participation, respect for human rights, and elimination of discrimination against non-binary genders such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ). We argue in this theological and ethical inquiry, which employs an inductive-interpretative method that the binary paradigm of identity determination corresponds to God’s vision for human beings who he created male and female (Gen 1:27). Sex and gender though distinct are God’s gift and must not be viewed as strictly products of a cultural construct. This study highlights the need to build a just society where the dignity of all human beings is respected regardless of their ideological proclivities without approving of subjective non-binary genders.