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Assignment 7 – Human rights and Heterosexism

In Peterson and Parisi’s article, the discussion begins with a focus on how sexual difference is related to heterosexism. This leads to the question, are women human? Initially, this question is answered as men are depicted as human while women are marked as the ‘other’; not human, but merely a subcategory. Humans rights, is generally androcentric, leaving a greater focus on men. This poses the argument that human rights are actually men’s rights. This lack of balance between sexes is prevalent when it comes to heterosexism. Ultimately, men benefit at the expense of women, as they are viewed as more valuable. There is a link between the normalization of subjectivities and identities based on heterosexism. The state, ideally, works in favor of heterosexuals, as it leans towards them when it comes to divisions of authority, power, labor, and resources. Essentially, major forms of representation in society are male-centered, which does not give the female population much recognition.

Heterosexism not only excludes other forms of sexuality, but it also excludes advantages for women, as it identifies with male defined groups and condones women’s subordination to those groups. It is oppressive, as males and masculinity are seen for their male-defined interests and are considered far more important than females and femininity and their interests. Not only are woman under attack psychologically and economically by the government, but they are also affected in the household, such as domestic violence. Peterson and Parisi speak of an instance where domestic violence is present, yet the state decided not to get involved. Unfortunately, with no help from the state, women are confined to the household and to their husbands, just as they are confined to the rigid perceptions and beliefs of society. Due to the fact that heterosexism is seen as the favorable sexuality, homosexuality is not seen as natural. This affects gay men and women, as their rights are compromised and not valued, being that they are not seen as normal. Ultimately, if the government deems it as something unacceptable, then that is how it is depicted. This idea of normality comes to light, but is confined to one form, leaving no room for anything out of the norm. This inequality affects gay and straight individuals, as well as women. With heterosexual men having the upperhand, it is evident where the focus falls and it is obvious that there is a gender bias in our society.