Kousika, Presidency, University, Bangalore
Hemanth Kumar, Presidency University, Bangalore
1. INTRODUCTION
Gender and sexuality are fundamental aspects of human identity that have profound implications for individuals, societies, and cultures worldwide. Exploring their meanings, definitions, and classifications provides crucial insights into the complexities and nuances of these concepts, as well as their recognition and treatment across different contexts and jurisdictions. Gender and sexuality constitute fundamental aspects of human identity, influencing individual experiences, societal norms, and legal frameworks. Understanding these concepts requires a nuanced exploration encompassing definitions, historical contexts, interdisciplinary perspectives, international laws, and their application within specific national contexts.
1.1 Meaning of Gender and Sexuality
Gender encompasses the social and cultural behavioral roles, norms, and expectations associated with male and female in a given society. It is a complex structure shaped by cultural beliefs, historical contexts, and individual experiences. Unlike biological sex, which is determined by physical attributes, gender is fluid and varies across cultures and time periods.
Sexuality refers to an individual's sexual orientation, desires, and preferences. It encompasses a broad scope of experiences, including romantic attraction, sexual behaviors, and emotional connections. Sexual orientation can be categorized as heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, or asexual, among others, and is not strictly tied to a person’s gender identity.
Both the gender and sexuality are deeply intertwined with identity and self-expression. They play crucial roles in shaping individuals' experiences, relationships, and interactions within society. Understanding and respecting the diversity of gender identities and sexual orientations is essential for fostering inclusive communities and combating discrimination.
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