Speaker: Perry Zurn
Day: October 22nd
Time: 3-5 PM
Location: Zoom (email sumeetcp@umich.edu or graygv@umich.edu for link)
Title: Problematization: A Critical Framework for Trans Inclusion
Speaker: Perry Zurn
Day: October 22nd
Time: 3-5 PM
Location: Zoom (email sumeetcp@umich.edu or graygv@umich.edu for link)
Title: Problematization: A Critical Framework for Trans Inclusion
Abstract: As part of the critical theory project, the philosophical method of problematization analyzes not only how it is that certain phenomena become problems, but what sort of problems they become and what set of solutions are offered in response. In this talk, I apply the method of problematization to the practice of trans inclusion in universities today. I do this in two ways. First, I analyze how it is that universities take trans life to be a problem such that certain trans-inclusive policies (and not others) are offered as a solution. Second, I analyze how trans people choose to become a problem for universities such that (trans-inclusive) policies are an insufficient response. Critically evaluating the parameters of competing problematizations, I close with some brief methodological reflections and practical recommendations.