Heterosexuality as a Problem for Feminist Theory

Abstract

Despite the emphasis on the social construction of sexuality in both feminist and wider social theory, we have yet to find satisfactory ways of conceptualizing sexuality as fully social. In part this derives from a lack of consensus as to what is meant by social construction and how it should be analysed. Feminists are also deeply divided on the politics of sexuality: on what it is about sexuality as currently constituted that needs to be challenged and on strategies for change. In this paper I will explore some of these problems and debates in order to seek a way forward for feminist analysis. I am not proposing some new definitive perspective on sexuality, nor will I attempt to answer all the questions I raise. I will, however, suggest some preconditions for theorizing about sexuality which I think are fundamental to an approach which is both feminist and sociological.