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Gender Quote by Philomena Essed

“Gender and sexual behaviour [are] things that are neither individually intended nor biologically determined, but culturally embedded; pressured […] before birth, a child is already treated as gendered […]. If gender is performed and imposed by reiteration – “citationality” – the imposition is…” quote by Philomena Essed
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““Gender and sexual behaviour [are] things that are neither individually intended nor biologically determined, but culturally embedded; pressured […] before birth, a child is already treated as gendered […]. If gender is performed and imposed by reiteration – “citationality” – the imposition is violent, precisely because no “natural” reality or truth supports it.””

Philomena Essed

About This Quote

Source Book: Gender Trouble in Society, 2015

Gender identities are socially constructed, imposed repeatedly, and can be violent when they deny natural diversity.

In simple terms: Gender is culturally built and can be oppressive.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and challenge imposed gender norms.

Themes

gender culture violence

Mood

critical empathetic

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • education
  • policy making
  • family dynamics
  • media representation

Key Concepts

social construction identity politics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do cultural narratives shape gender expectations?
  • What actions can reduce gender‑based violence?
A Different Perspective

Changing deep‑rooted cultural expectations is a slow, contested process.

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