I had a sudden feeling that queerPhilosophy had developed two distinct themes. One theme, “linking queer theory with queer practice”, is discussed in detail throughout this site. The other theme “critical queer thinking and self-reflection”, emerges more implicitly. But I really think these two themes are very closely related. By critically exploring questions internal to the lgbtq(etc) community (self-reflection), we are bringing together “queer theory” (and I use this term broadly) with “queer practice”. And when we seek to apply “queer theory” outside academia, we are faced with very practical questions internal to the lgbqt(etc) community (again, requiring self-reflection).
In case this sounds too abstract, let me clarify a few things. The “self” in “self-reflection” is the lgbtq(etc) community. Self-reflection is the community asking and discussing philosophical questions relevant to itself. “Queer theory” in this case refers to any philosophy dealing with sexuality, gender, and relationships.
With this said, I think the theme “critical queer thinking and self-reflection” is clearer and somehow more appropriate. But again, I think the two themes are closely related.
- mekyla.
