Queer Theory as a form of Post-Modernism

GC140, Modesto A. Maidique Campus, Florida International University

Queer theorists and post-modernists have historically developed their concepts along similar lines. The ideas brought forth by these two disciplines problematize the ideologies and endeavors of Westernized nations in being able to define the status quo of the society. Individuals of these communities are molded into accepting the binary differences of men and women; the understandings of Western nations dichotomize individuals under the queer umbrella from the dominant heterosexual population. This separation has historically favored the heterosexual populace. Theorists, such as Judith Butler, criticize the normality of heterosexual behavior being instituted as the “norm” since these performances are deemed acceptable in the eye of the public. Many of these performances can fall within the realm of four prominent components of day to day living – integrity of identity, the right to religion, the institution of marriage, and adoption/parenting – in Western societies that were defined around a heterosexual population and redefined through queer theory to be inclusive of queers. From the deconstruction of these “truths” come new altered understandings that are more fitting for those whom do not fit in the cookie mold of static heterosexuality. The popular idiom used by many queer individuals “We’re here, we’re queer, get used to it” sums up the path that queer theory is forming, to create societal equality between the queer population and their heterosexual neighbors.