Queer
The word “queer” is said to have primarily two meanings. According
to the World
Book Dictionary,
queer is defined as “not usual or normal, odd, or peculiar.” Although in 20th
century this word had taken more of a sexual meaning, stated in the Encyclopedia
of Sex and Gender the definition reads “a derogatory label for
homosexuals.” Taking in to consideration
the two meanings of this word, it can be directed to either people who do not
meet ones normal stand or to homosexuals.
In the 1980’s, queer, was making a name for itself. In the
International Encyclopedia
of the Social Sciences, elite
scholars wanted to reclaim the term for themselves and therefore came together
to complete a mission, “to develop lesbian and gay social constructionists”,
thus creating Queer Theory/ Sociology. Many scholars have come out of this group
with very important points in order to shift the study of sexuality “from
explaining the modern homosexual to questions of the operation of the
hetero/homosexual binary.” The important topics and points that these scholars made,
have only promoted Queer Theory/Sociology.
In modern society, queer, is primarily used as a derogatory
statement towards homosexuals. Specifically kids at school cease the
opportunity to take use to this term. According to an article titled Queer,
Young, and Bullied, at least 75% of kids at schools without GSA’s receive
homophobic remarks. At times, the effect this term has on kids and adults, in
derogatory form, creates an environment of sadness and suicidal thoughts.
Works Cited
Hoogland,
Renee C. "Queer." Encyclopedia
of Sex and Gender. Vol. 4. Detroit: n.p., 2207. 1235. Print.
McDonald,
Natalie Hope. "Queer, Young and Bullied." Philadelphia Magazine. N.p., 03 Apr. 2012. Web. 27 Aug. 2015.
"Queer."
The World Book Encyclopedia. Chicago,
IL: World Book, 2009. Print.
I found it interesting that the word queer has taken on two meanings: one that has been around for awhile and one that has recently evolved in the 20th century.
ReplyDeleteVery interesting. I like how you used the statistics about todays schools.
ReplyDeleteVery interesting. What do you think about the two different definitions of "queer"? Do you think that one could be based off of the other?
ReplyDeleteI think the contrast in the two definitions is really interesting. It seems as though they both carry a negative tone. I also find it interesting that the LGBTQ community includes the Q if it is seen as somewhat derogatory.
ReplyDelete