Background Information on Theory:
Queen theory refers to the experiences of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered community. The theory is associated with anti-homophobic politics, it is “wary of identity politics (political activism that arises out of the effort of marginalized groups to seek legitimacy and recognition for their distinct identities) that have served as the foundation for mainstream conceptualizations of sexuality” (Ritzer, 2013). Yet, a conflicting viewpoint is present in queen theory such as not promoting the truth or reality of homosexual desire alongside heterosexual desire, instead it develops theoretical tools that demonstrate the contingency of all identities and then describes the processes through which sexual identifications are achieved(Ritzer, 2013).
Additionally, at the start of the 20th century being identify as homosexuality was divergent to identifying oneself to being heterosexual. Judith Butler remarks that in a modern social life setting a heterosexual matrix viewpoint has been form. Heterosexual matrix is “a cultural framework that makes it appears as if heterosexuality was the natural form of sexuality” (Ritzer, 2013). Thus, heterosexual matrix then unveils compulsory heterosexuality, “a social system in which the only viable, intelligible and respectable form of sexuality is heterosexuality” (Ritzer, 2013). So, making society judgment as any alternative expression of desire from heterosexuality is treated as unnatural and unintelligible.
Finally, Eve Sedgwick acknowledges the viewpoint of epistemology
of the closet, which is the idea, that modern society’s knowledge about
sexuality and in particular is connected to the public denial of homosexuality
(Ritzer, 2013). This means the word closet in the above term, is a
representation of a person who identifies as homosexuality has to keep their
identity a secret, hidden from view, maintained in the privacy of their home
and in a safe place. Consequently, those who do associate as homosexuality feel
shame, depression, a sense of non-belonging, and having to hide their true self
from others in society and even their own families and friends. Lastly,
Sedgwick argues the point that by having to keep homosexuality so private,
homosexual panic has be form, people are then fearful and have violent
reactions towards homosexuality described as homophobia.
This video demonstrates what is
consider epistemology of the closet, it shows a gay male who has not confirm
his sexually yet to his family and friends and hopes a how to be a man book,
will have help hide his true self a little bit longer.
Modern Times Changing Viewpoints:
The following two videos demonstrate
how manipulate Queen Theory has been on society before, people become more
educated and homosexuality become more acceptable.
This video shows typical stereotypes
society gains from Media about the falsehood on how people who associate with
Homosexuality present themselves in the public eye.
Homosexuality has become more acceptable in society comparable to fifty years old when it was a taboo to talk about. For instance, television shows back in the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s, portrayed the symbolic family (mother, father, brother, sister), typical gender roles and storylines based on family values and themes related to current events.
On the contrary, television shows
in the 90’s to present, have adapted to society's tolerance for homosexuality and
portrays more homosexual characters and themes. Television shows are presenting
more realistic homosexuality characteristics that are allowing those who often
feel ashamed to allow others to know they are homosexual or those people who have
negative feelings towards homosexuals’ gain a better understand of their
choices in life.
Over the years, since Queen Theory was first talked
about society has expanded their knowledge and developed a more open-minded approach
to viewing being who belong in the LGBT community. While the public is still divided
over same-sex marriage, a majority of Americans (58%) say that homosexuality
should be accepted, rather than discouraged, by society. Among younger people
in particular, there is broad support for societal acceptance of homosexuality
and those age 50 and older favor societal acceptance of homosexuality (Clark,
2011). Since 2007, the increasing number of gay couples raising children viewed
as unacceptable has fallen from 50% to 35%, compare to those who remain neutral
is 48% today (Clark, 2011).
Moreover, statistics shows television networks are among part of society
that has modified their shows shown on prime time networks to include more LGBT
characters. “LGBT characters are growing in number on broadcast television. In
the current TV season, lesbian, gay or bisexual characters make up 3.9% of the
total number of series regulars on prime-time shows on the five broadcast
networks. An increase of 3.3% but falls short of 2012's record high, 4.4%” (Keveney,
2014).
Lastly,
research has found that issues relating to homosexuality and gay rights are
more divisive among core Democratic groups than among GOP groups. This was seen
in 2008 when proportion 8 was highly popular and affected the marriage rights
of the LGBT community. A vase majorly of people become highly involved in expressing their favor or disapproval in the proportion 8 getting passed. The following video provides both pro and con viewpoints
of the proportion.
In conclusion, society still has a long
way to go from when Queen Theory was first establish and apply to the
homosexuality community. People are making process with the help of education
and social media, yet there is still a vase majority of people who are on the
fence or fail to change their perspectives. I hope in a few more years, as
younger generations grow older, society will become more acceptable and welcoming
of those belonging to the LBGT community.
References:
Clark,
M. P. (2011, May 13). Most Say Homosexuality Should Be Accepted By Society.
Retrieved May 01, 2016, from
http://www.people-press.org/2011/05/13/most-say-homosexuality-should-be-accepted-by-society/
Keveney,
B. (2014, October 01). Yes, you really are seeing more LGBT characters on TV.
Retrieved May 01, 2016, from
http://www.usatoday.com/story/life/tv/2014/10/01/glaad-report-find-rising-percentage-of-lesbian-gay-bisexual-transgender-tv-characters/16511915/
Ritzer, George. 2013. Contemporary Sociological Theory and Its
Classical Roots: the basic. New York, NY. McGraw Hill.
