Revisiting Gender Discussions: Embracing the Biological Perspective

 

The discussions surrounding gender should become increasingly complex since the focus on social constructions stifles conflicting perspectives and evolving ideologies. Despite neglecting conflicting perspectives, one prevailing issue emerges—role confusion.

Over the years, the feminist movement has championed the cause of gender equality, advocating for women's rights and dismantling archaic stereotypes. Yet, despite strides made in education, employment, and social recognition, a significant portion of women seems hesitant to embrace roles historically attributed to men. There remains a palpable reluctance among women to ascend to roles traditionally associated with men, particularly that of the provider or breadwinner.

This phenomenon raises profound questions about the prevailing social construction perspective on gender. It signals that there could be more to the explanation of this gender phenomenon. Probably, it is time to seriously consider the biological perspective of gender too.

Exploring the Predominance of Social Construction Over Biology:

At the heart of the gender discourse lies a fundamental oversight—the dismissal of biology's profound influence on human existence. The prevailing gender narrative often prioritizes social construction over biology, relegating the latter to a secondary role. However, such a perspective fails to acknowledge the significant association between biology and societal structures.

Firstly, all living entities, including human beings, originate from biology. Without biology, man, the basic unit and the very fabric of society would cease to exist. Additionally, human behavior, ingrained in biological influences like hormones, shapes the creation of societal norms and constructs. Thus, to prioritize social construction over biology is to overlook the very essence of existence itself.

Secondly, human behavior, meticulously crafted by millennia of evolutionary adaptation, is inherently geared towards survival. Biology serves as the guiding force behind our actions, orchestrating individual and collective endeavors aimed at ensuring survival and perpetuation. From primal instincts to complex social dynamics, biology permeates every facet of human existence, directing behavior and shaping societal paradigms.

Embracing Biological Realities:

Central to the discourse on gender are the observable disparities between male and female characteristics. These differences, rooted in biology, underscore distinct roles and functionalities within society. Just as different machines are meticulously designed for specific tasks, so too are human beings endowed with innate characteristics tailored to fulfill distinct roles. Dismissing these disparities as mere social constructs undermines biological realities that we can see.

Furthermore, the chromosomal disparities between males (XY) and females (XX) offer profound insights into the divergence of behavioral patterns and characteristics. The genetic information encoded within these different chromosomal pairs shapes not only different physical attributes but also behavioral tendencies. To disregard the significance of chromosomal disparities is to overlook a fundamental aspect of human diversity and functionality.

Understanding Gender Roles:

To delve deeper into the discussion of gender roles, it is essential to recognize the evolutionary basis behind the division of labor between males and females. Throughout human history, survival has been contingent upon cooperation and specialization. Males, equipped with physical prowess and spatial reasoning skills honed through evolution, often assumed roles involving hunting, gathering, and defense. Females, on the other hand, with their reproductive capabilities and nurturing instincts, gravitated towards roles centered on caregiving, child-rearing, and community cohesion.

While societal advancements have blurred the lines between traditional gender roles, the underlying biological predispositions continue to exert a profound influence on human behavior. Despite the strides made towards gender equality, studies indicate that innate biological differences persist, shaping occupational preferences, leadership styles, and interpersonal dynamics.

Navigating the Complexities of Gender Identity:

In recent years, discussions surrounding gender identity have expanded beyond the binary constructs of male and female, embracing a more nuanced understanding of gender diversity. The recognition of transgender, non-binary, and genderqueer individuals underscores the fluidity of gender expression and challenges rigid societal norms.

From a biological perspective, the diversity of gender identities can be attributed to a myriad of factors, including genetic, hormonal, and neurological variations. Recent research suggests that biological influences, such as prenatal hormone exposure and genetic predispositions, contribute to the development of gender identity. Moreover, neurobiological studies have revealed structural and functional differences in the brains of transgender individuals, further highlighting the complex interplay between biology and gender identity.

Championing a Holistic Perspective:

In conclusion, the prevailing narrative on gender must move beyond the social construction theory of gender. While acknowledging the pivotal role of societal constructs, it is imperative to recognize the profound influence of biology on human behavior and societal dynamics. The persistent reluctance among women to embrace roles traditionally associated with men underscores the inadequacies of perspectives that prioritize social constructs over biological realities.

As we navigate the difficult terrain of gender discourse, let us heed the call to embrace a holistic perspective—one that acknowledges the symbiotic relationship between social constructs and biological imperatives. Only by reconciling these seemingly divergent perspectives can we pave the way for a more nuanced understanding of gender dynamics and foster genuine progress towards gender equality.

Carl Jacobs: A Champion for Individualism in Conflict with Society in "Euphoria" Season 2, Episode 4

 

"Euphoria," the critically acclaimed HBO series, is a masterful exploration of the tumultuous lives of modern adolescents, delving into the complexities of addiction, relationships, and identity. In Season 2, Episode 4, the narrative takes a profound turn as it focuses on the character Carl Jacobs, a symbol of individualism in stark contrast to his family, representing societal norms and expectations.

This pivotal scene, in which Carl enters his home intoxicated and urinates on the floor, serves as a powerful allegory for the clash between the pursuit of personal freedom and the conforming pressures of society.

A Defiant Act of Rebellion: Carl's Urination on His Family's Pride

Carl's audacious urinating on the floor of his family's home in "Euphoria" Season 2, Episode 4, carries profound symbolic weight. This house, built with his sweat and toil, represents the epitome of societal achievement and conformity. However, Carl's act is a stark rejection of the societal norm that places unwavering emphasis on hard work and material success. It serves as a poignant commentary on the potentially hollow nature of relentless ambition.

In this moment, as he relieves himself on what should be his pride, Carl appears to grapple with a sense of regret, realizing that there must be more to life than the relentless pursuit of material success. His act becomes a form of self-inflicted punishment, an acknowledgement of the emptiness that can accompany a life dedicated to work and achievement.

The Bold Rebellion: Carl's Unveiling of the Individual's Power

In a stunning and audacious display of rebellion, Carl's decision to walk with his exposed penis in front of his family in "Euphoria" Season 2, Episode 4, unveils a powerful symbolism. In most societies, exposing one's nakedness, particularly in front of one's children, is seen as taboo, often laden with dire consequences. The biblical reference to Noah and his son serves as a poignant reminder of the historical weight attached to such actions. In many African societies, witnessing a parent's nudity can be considered a curse.

Carl, embodying the essence of individualism, takes a bold step that asserts these norms. He symbolizes that the individual should inherently be greater than the society they inhabit because the individual is the one who creates the society. Just as without the parent, children cannot exist; without the individual, society is void.

Carl's nudity becomes a declaration that the restrictions and expectations society imposes on the individual are a curse to society. A child can never instruct a father, but the father shows the child the way. Thus, society has retarded growth and development because it instructs its parent, the individual, instead of following the parent’s way.

In this act, Carl's defiance mirrors the sentiment found in Eminem's song, "I Am Not Afraid," where he speaks of challenging the universe by pulling out his penis in the dark, a symbolic act of reckoning with life's injustices. Similarly, Carl's audacious stride with his penis exposed can be seen as his way of exacting a form of payback upon society for the ways in which it has constrained, controlled, and perhaps even "messed him up."

Carl's bold actions in this scene are a stark reminder that the individual possesses immense power—the power to challenge societal norms, question established conventions, and assert their right to exist as more than mere cogs in the machinery of society. It underscores the idea that true growth and progress can only be achieved when individuals are unafraid to challenge the status quo, even if it means confronting the uncomfortable and unsettling norms of the world around them.

The Power Play: Carl's Positioning and the Society-Individual Dynamic

In a scene rife with symbolism in "Euphoria" Season 2, Episode 4, the spatial positioning of Carl and his family underscores the intricate power dynamics between society and the individual. This visual representation speaks volumes about this complex relationship's inherent imbalances and struggles.

Carl, embodying the essence of individualism, occupies the lower ground, speaking from a position downstairs while looking up at his family. This arrangement serves as a potent symbol, illustrating the societal construct that places the individual beneath the collective power of society. It suggests that the individual often finds themselves in a subordinate position, accountable to the collective's norms, expectations, and judgments.

Conversely, Carl's family, situated upstairs and looking down at him, symbolizes the overarching power of society in this context. Their elevated position signifies the societal hierarchy that tends to exert control, influence and even judgment over the individual. It reflects the societal structure where conformity is often demanded, and deviation from the established norms can lead to ostracization or marginalization.

This powerful visual representation encapsulates the perpetual struggle between society and the individual. The family's gaze directed downward upon Carl mirrors how society often looks down upon and enforces conformity upon those who dare challenge its norms. The individual, represented by Carl, is left with the choice to conform or face the potential consequences of non-conformity.

In this scene, "Euphoria" masterfully captures our world's intricate power dynamics. It prompts viewers to reflect on the constant negotiation between individuality and societal expectations, where the individual must navigate the ever-present pressure to conform or risk being marginalized by the collective force of society.

Marsha's Outreach and Carl's Defiance: The Symbolism of Society's Response

In the pivotal scene featuring Marsha, Carl's wife, reaching out to him in "Euphoria" Season 2, Episode 4, a complex interplay of symbolism unfolds, shedding light on society's response to the rebellious individual and the individual's defiant stance against societal expectations.

Marsha's reaching out to Carl is a potent symbol of society's attempt to extend a helping hand to a wayward individual, aiming to guide them back towards conformity. Her suggestion that Carl should see a doctor symbolizes how society often judges non-conforming individuals as "sick" or deviant. It reflects society's inclination to pathologize those deviating from established norms.

In response, Carl vehemently protests, asserting that he is "100% fine." This defiant declaration carries profound symbolism, signifying the individual's yearning for autonomy and the belief that self-discovery and self-fulfilment can only be achieved by charting one's path. It underscores the idea that when individuals are allowed to find their way, they have the potential to achieve a sense of self-fulfilment that cannot be attained through conformity alone.

Marsha's response, expressing her fear in response to Carl's defiance, mirrors society's apprehension toward those who challenge the status quo. Society often becomes accustomed to the default norms and is reluctant to accept change, fearing the disruption that may come with it. Just as Marsha is scared by Carl's refusal to conform to societal expectations, society can fear those who seek to redefine or challenge established norms.

In a moment of poignant irony, Carl embraces the derogatory names that society may assign him: "faggot, sexist, pig, creep." While this may initially sound like a form of empowerment, it prophesies society's tactics to eliminate those who refuse to conform. These derogatory labels can become weapons to discredit and marginalize those who question the status quo.

This scene in "Euphoria" masterfully encapsulates the intricate dance between the individual and society. It highlights the struggle of the non-conforming individual, their defiance against societal expectations, and the societal fear of change. It serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges and consequences faced by those who choose to tread their path outside the boundaries set by society.

Carl's Bold Revelation and Society's Unyielding Isolation

In a striking sequence in "Euphoria" Season 2, Episode 4, Carl takes centre stage, fearlessly acknowledging his non-conforming desires and embarking on a journey to reveal the double lives led by his family members. This emotionally charged scene unfolds with powerful symbolism, shedding light on the dynamics between the individual and society.

Carl's unapologetic declaration of his sexual preferences, encompassing men, women, and transsexuals, is a resounding affirmation of his identity. He boldly embraces who he is, refusing to conform to societal norms that attempt to restrict his self-expression. This act symbolizes the individual's relentless quest for authenticity and self-acceptance.

As Carl stands upstairs with his family members, the symbolism of their equal positioning underscores a momentary glimpse of parity between the individual and society. However, his revelations soon take a different turn. Carl begins by confronting his wife, Marsha, about her flirtatious interactions with other men on social media, a breach of the loyalty expected within a marriage. This act of non-conformity by Marsha mirrors Carl's defiance against societal expectations.

In a moment of empathy, Carl tells Marsha that it's acceptable for her to feel loved by someone other than him, extending the same understanding he desires. However, Marsha's response, retreating to her room and locking herself in, symbolizes society's unwillingness to confront its contradictions. It often prefers to hide behind established norms rather than confront the complexities of individuality.

Descending the stairs and sharing his revelations with Erin, Carl's symbolic positioning shifts, signifying the futility of the individual's efforts to find equal footing within an unyielding society. He confesses to Erin watching explicit content on his computer, exposing Erin's double life. However, Carl's demeanour suggests a sense of resignation, as if he knows that his revelations may not alter the course of his familial relationships.

As Carl finally descends the stairs, leaving his family members still positioned upstairs, his comment, "You pushed me to a corner," resonates with the defeat of the individual by society. It symbolizes how the relentless pressures of societal conformity have isolated him, pushing him into a metaphorical corner.

When Carl ultimately leaves the house, it signifies the sad culmination of a non-conforming individual's battle against the unyielding forces of society. He is a symbol of someone who, after relentless pushback, has been effectively eliminated by a society that often struggles to accept those who challenge its established norms.

The Complex Dance of Society and the Individual in "Euphoria"

In the tumultuous world of "Euphoria," Season 2, Episode 4, a profound exploration of the intricate relationship between society and the individual unfolds, weaving a tapestry of symbolism and introspection. This episode's various scenes and moments offer a poignant commentary on the struggle for autonomy, self-identity, and the relentless push and pull between societal expectations and individual desires.

Throughout the episode, Carl Jacobs, embodying the spirit of individualism, becomes the focal point of this intricate dance. His bold defiance of societal norms, symbolized by urinating on his home and openly embracing his non-conforming desires, represents the individual's yearning for autonomy and self-discovery. Carl's actions challenge the status quo and beckon society to confront its contradictions.

Marsha, Carl's wife, and other family members represent society's reactions to non-conformity. Marsha's fear and withdrawal when confronted with Carl's revelations mirror society's reluctance to address its double standards and norms. The episode underscores society's propensity to pathologize non-conforming individuals while ignoring its inconsistencies.

The spatial symbolism of Carl being on equal footing with his family members upstairs, only to descend the stairs as he exposes their hidden lives, is a powerful visual metaphor for the futility of the individual's struggle to find equality within the unyielding embrace of societal norms.

Ultimately, Carl's departure from the house represents the tragic outcome of a non-conforming individual pushed to the margins by a society unwilling to confront its realities. It encapsulates the toll of the relentless battle between the individual and society's expectations.

"Euphoria," in this thought-provoking episode, invites viewers to reflect on the delicate balance between individuality and conformity, offering insights into the challenges and consequences faced by those who dare to challenge the established norms. It reminds us that pursuing personal freedom, identity, and self-discovery can be a lonely and difficult journey in a world where society often demands conformity above all else. The episode serves as a testament to the enduring struggle between the individual and society, leaving us much to ponder about the complexities of this timeless dance.

 

 

 

 

Review of Dreams in a Time of War

In a world directed by economic power and wealth, honest, critical, and dissenting voices that challenge the popular capitalist hegemony are often disparaged and ridiculed. Such are the works of professor Ngugi wa Thiongo, a Kenyan literary icon. His authentic voice on the evils of colonialism and the corrupt neo-colonial Africa has made his books lie in the inaccessible corners of libraries in Kenya and across the globe. Fortunately, passionate readers with a concentrated desire for knowledge find these books that redeem them from ignorance. You learn about the hidden narratives of the African struggle for independence, the unwillingness of brazen colonial powers to face their brutal colonial past, and the true heroes of the African independence struggle.
 "Dreams in a Time of War" is Ngugi's autobiography. Unlike most of his books, which tackle most of the abovementioned themes, "Dreams in a Time of War" depicts how turbulent events affect young, innocent children and how they capture these events and struggle to understand them.
 A Child's State of Confusion
 Landowners to squatters
 A child's state of confusion is the primary theme in "Dreams in a Time of War." Several traumatic events happen in Ngugi's life as a young boy that we only see him trying to process as an adult when writing this piece.
 Ngugi's father, a landowner in Limuru, suddenly becomes a squatter. Their neighbor, an African Catholic Christian convert, grabs their land. There is nothing that Ngugi's father can do to win his land back, yet everyone knows the land belongs to his father. Ngugi does not understand how society cannot solve open land theft straightforwardly. All he hears is that times have changed, and those that possess title deeds are the owners of the land. He chooses not to concern himself with the matter.
 Christianity vs. African Traditional Religion
 Young Ngugi is torn between Christianity and African Traditional Religion. Their neighbor is a Christian (a catholic father). His uncle, his father's eldest brother, their other neighbor, is a staunch believer in traditional African practices. Ngugi's father scoffs at both Christianity and traditional African practices. Thus, Ngugi has the free will to choose his spiritual path. He wanders between the two spiritual paths while failing to pledge allegiance. There is a time he gets baptized and adorns the Christian name "James." There is a time he undergoes the Traditional African rite of circumcision that graduates him from a child to a man. Most of these activities he does since others are doing them.
 African Independent Schools vs. Colonial Government Schools and Missionary Schools
 Ngugi notices a difference in knowledge that teachers provide him depending on the type of school he attends. While at the African independent schools, he can speak his native language, Gikuyu. History teachers also teach them about Mekatiliti of Giriama, Wayaki wa Hinga of Gikuyu, and Koitalel Arap Samoei of the Nandi, African leaders who organized their tribes to repel the British invasion of their country for several years. At government and missionary schools, history teachers talk about Ludwing Kraft, Rebman, and Vasco da Gama, European explorers and colonizers that prepared the way for the invasion of Kenya. When the African independent schools are closed, Ngugi is saddened that his only dream of getting an education is stopped. He only wants an education, so he moves to a colonial government school. His dream as a child is to get an education. That is all that matters to him.
 Family Separations and Divisions
 When Ngugi's family experiences separations and divisions, he does not know whose side he should take. When Ngugi's father chases his mother away from home, Ngugi stays back with his brother. Ngugi knows his father's compound is his home. However, when his father asks him to stop playing with his children (his other siblings), Ngugi leaves with his brother and follows their mother. Ngugi never thought the fight between his parents would reach him, down the family order, and result in his father disowning him.
 During the state of emergency, Ngugi's beloved stepbrother, Wallace, joins the Kenya Land and Freedom Army. He has another stepbrother that works as a police informer that sells the secret of the Kenya Land and Freedom Army. Ngugi also has a stepbrother that fought for the British empire under the King's African Rifles in World War II. He often fears what might happen when these three brothers with different allegiances to the colonial government meet. He cannot decide who is wrong or right in the struggle between freedom and slavery.
 When the colonial government evicts Ngugi's grandmother from her home in Elburgon, she comes to Limuru to stay with them. Ngugi can see apparent strife between mother and daughter (his grandmother and mother). He feels that his grandmother is always stern with his mother. Ngugi's grandmother never appreciates anything her mother does. He knows something is not right but lacks the knowledge and power to solve it.
 A child's Biased Love Towards the Mother
 "Dreams in a Time of War" reveals how children develop biased love towards the present parent, which is usually the mother. Mothers are caregivers in most families. They spend much time with their children and develop strong bonds with them. These bonds of love become so great that they make children elevate their mothers to an angelic, pure, and godly status. Such is the relationship between Ngugi, the character, and his mother. The fact that Ngugi chose to write "Dreams in a Time of War" as a dedication to his mother infers that he would likely be biased.
 Conflict Between Mother and Father
 Ngugi assumes that his father is in the wrong when he fights with his mother. Ngugi assumes that the stresses resulting from his father's loss of wealth and property have driven him to beat his mother. However, there are many background occurrences in this relationship that Ngugi ignores that can cause a couple to fight and even break up.
 Ngugi's mother is a hard-working woman who can force the land to yield. When her husband loses his land, it dramatically affects her too. She no longer has the pride, confidence, and motivation that one gets working on her property. Thus, this loss of land might have contributed to her disputes with her husband since she is uncomfortable with it. Additionally, Ngugi's grandfather (his mother's father) is wealthy, with vast lands and cattle. Most children want to do better than their parents. Thus, her husband's failure to surpass her father in wealth could have caused Ngugi's mother to be upset with him. Ngugi's mother also had a daughter who had fallen in a fire and died of severe burns. Maybe this traumatic incident still haunts both parents and causes them to fight. Finally, Ngugi's father has four wives. Only Ngugi's mother left him. Thus, it is unfair for Ngugi to claim that the heat of financial stresses made his father change; otherwise, the other three wives would have abandoned him too.
 Conflict Between Mother and Grandmother
 Ngugi believes that his grandmother is unappreciative of his mother's effort to care for her. One can gather from the story that when Ngugi's grandmother separated from his grandfather, Ngugi's mother followed his father to Limuru, and her mother remained in Elburgon with Ngugi's aunt. Ngugi's aunt lived with his grandmother taking care of her. It might be that Ngugi's grandmother always held it against Ngugi's mother for choosing Ngugi's grandfather over her. Maybe Ngugi's grandmother resented the great love Ngugi's mother shared with her father (Ngugi's grandfather) that happened to leave her for another woman. Ngugi's grandmother's resentment towards her daughter is quite understandable based on her life experiences.
 Strength in Unity
 "Dreams in a Time of War" stresses the common saying that unity is strength. The book is set in a blustery colonial Kenya where the struggle between freedom and slavery is rife. In such trying times for the oppressed people (Kenyans), unity among the people emerges as the most effective way of ensuring survival and fighting oppression.
 Refuge
 The people of Limuru help Ngugi's family settle there after they come from Murang'a, where they escape pestilence. The people of Limuru are very compassionate and empathetic. They welcome Ngugi's uncle (his father's brother) into their community and give him adequate land to farm and live with his family. Later, when Ngugi's father also moves to Limuru after finding life hard in Nairobi, his brother welcomes him to Limuru. Ngugi's uncle gives his father adequate land to farm and live in with his family. Here, we find two brothers that pestilence forced out of their homes finding refuge and life support in a new community far away from home.
 Domestic Violence
 Ngugi's mothers help one another stop their husband from battering one of them. Ngugi's father beats his wives on rare occasions. During such occasions, the other wives, not facing his wrath, always stop him by making loud cries in the compound to invite people to stop him from beating his victim to a pulp.
 Advancement of Education
 Africans start African independent schools to help meet the educational needs of African children that the colonial government neglects. They start schools like Manguo, where children are taught to be proud of their heritage. Ngugi attends Manguo Primary School. Since African independent schools face staff shortages, Africans build the African Teachers College at Githunguri to train teachers for their schools. When Alliance high school sends Ngugi an admission letter, his half-brothers donate money to raise his tuition fee. Njoki, his sister, buys him a pair of shoes. Here we see a large African population that the colonial government neglects their need for empowerment through education. They come together to start their schools and educate their children.
 Conclusion
 "Dreams in a Time of War" has well captured the puzzles children face growing up. It shows that children react to tempestuous events depending on how grownups react. Children also follow the norms of society to wade through life without trouble. This excellently-written novel also shows that children develop love bias toward the parent who spends a lot of time with them, their caregiver. Children develop a strong bond with the ever-present parent and take her side in any conflict she faces. Moreover, "Dreams in a Time of War" reveals that unity is the only way an oppressed society can redeem itself from the claws of slavery and suffering.
 Besides these solid psychological themes emanating from this simply perfect work, there is evidence of adult bias in the novel. "Dreams in Time of War" is a novel whose prime character is a child (the young Ngugi). However, an adult Ngugi that is experienced, knowledgeable, and decisive has written it. Thus, the novel has lots of logical deductions on the puzzles the young Ngugi face. It would be better had the novel been written by the young Ngugi to portray better his thinking, emotions, and reactions to events.
 Overall, "Dreams in a Time of War" is a significant literary piece worthy of your time. It helps you know the life of the legendary writer Ngugi wa Thiong'o. It also helps one understand a child's psychology. Moreover, it helps you understand the brutal colonial history of Kenya and the ignored participation of Africans in significant world events like World War II. Grab your copy.