The queer necropolitics of the bisexual inappropriate/d other: The lively abandonments of LGBTQ+ theory

Shona Bettany, David Rowe

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

How does one begin to craft politics and theory around an ontological category that remains stubbornly and intractably subjected to the argument that it does not exist? This chapter draws on ideas around the lively abandonment of gender normative death-worlds brought empirically and theoretically into dialogue with the political power of the inappropriate/d other – the lively cultural irritant of the out-and-proud bisexual operating in the homonormative spaces of LGBTQ+ servicescapes. Extending the theory of the queer necropolitics of LGBTQ+ death worlds, we would argue that prior theory has focused on the existence and ontological underpinnings of death-worlds but less on the political interventions that can be made to destabilise and counter their power. In dialogue with the figure of the inappropriate/d other, we build upon this theory to articulate levels of intervention that can be made. We suggest that interventions particular to the inappropriate/d other can be made at ontological, epistemological, and axiological levels of necropolitical death worlds, mapping the three forms of lively abandonment of BiErasure, BiPhobia, and BiFetishisation, respectively. By mapping out these three forms of lively abandonment, we aim to provide a framework for practical interventions that might disrupt the power dynamics within necropolitical death worlds. Our goal is to move beyond the theorising of these worlds and delve into the realm of political action to envisage instead LGBTQ+ servicescapes that foster inclusivity, understanding, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationSexuality in Marketing and Consumption
Subtitle of host publicationQueer Theory, Feminist Research, and Intersectionality
EditorsAthanasia Daskalopoulou, Daniela Pirani, Jacob Ostberg
PublisherRoutledge, Taylor & Francis Group
Chapter6
Pages83-98
Number of pages16
ISBN (Electronic)9781040106419
ISBN (Print)9781032593999
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 9 Aug 2024

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