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Published on: March 2, 2011
Sexed Politics, Histories, and Futures.
1Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology Program, Emory College of Arts and Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322.
Sex is weaponized in science and society, impacting funding and legal protections for queer, trans, and intersex individuals. Scientists must challenge existing sex frameworks to advance research and protect communities.
Area of Science:
- Gender Studies
- Sociology of Science
- Bioethics
Background:
- The language of biological sex is increasingly politicized.
- This politicization impacts scientific funding and legal protections.
- Historical precedents exist for the misuse of sex as a political tool.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the current weaponization of sex in science and society.
- To examine the legislative and funding implications of this trend.
- To propose a path forward for scientific research and advocacy.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of scientific discourse and legislative actions.
- Historical review of sex as a political construct in Western thought.
- Conceptual analysis of "sexed frameworks" in scientific inquiry.
Main Results:
- Scientific terminology related to sex and diversity is being used to restrict research and funding.
- Legislation is actively rolling back protections for queer, trans, and intersex communities.
- The current situation reflects a long history of sex being used as a political tool.
Conclusions:
- The weaponization of sex poses a significant threat to scientific progress and social justice.
- Scientists must critically examine and move beyond restrictive "sexed frameworks".
- Developing "new scientific imaginaries" is crucial for overcoming these challenges and fostering inclusive research.
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