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In what way does queer kinship challenge the traditional kinship system? Substantiate by giving illustrations. (10 marks)
Kinship has traditionally been understood in sociology as a system based on heterosexual marriage, biological reproduction, and lineage. Queer kinship, however, disrupts these assumptions by recognizing diverse, non-normative forms of intimacy, care, and family-making. It challenges the heteronormative framework and expands the meaning of kinship beyond blood and marriage ties.
Queer Kinship Challenges Traditional Kinship
Redefinition of Family:
- Traditional kinship emphasizes nuclear families based on heterosexual couples and biological children.
- Queer kinship includes chosen families, same-sex couples, and networks of friends who function as kin.
Decentering Biological Reproduction:
- Conventional kinship privileges biological descent.
- Queer kinship recognizes adoption, surrogacy, and caregiving as equally valid forms of family-making.
Fluidity of Roles:
- Traditional kinship assigns rigid roles (husband, wife, father, mother).
- Queer kinship allows fluid roles, where partners and caregivers negotiate responsibilities beyond gendered expectations.
Challenging Patriarchy and Heteronormativity:
- Traditional kinship often reinforces patriarchal authority and heterosexual norms.
- Queer kinship destabilizes these hierarchies by legitimizing diverse sexualities and gender identities.
Illustrations
- Same-Sex Parenting: In many societies, same-sex couples raising children challenge the assumption that only heterosexual unions can form legitimate families.
- Chosen Families in LGBTQ+ Communities: Individuals estranged from biological families often create networks of support, care, and solidarity that function as kinship.
- Indian Context: Post the Navtej Singh Johar vs. Union of India (2018) judgment decriminalizing homosexuality, queer collectives and support groups in India have gained visibility, redefining kinship through community bonds rather than lineage.
- Global Example: In Western countries, legal recognition of same-sex marriage and adoption rights institutionalizes queer kinship, challenging traditional definitions of family.
Queer kinship challenges traditional kinship systems by broadening the definition of family, decentering biological reproduction, and destabilizing heteronormative and patriarchal structures. Through chosen families, same-sex parenting, and community-based bonds, queer kinship demonstrates that intimacy and care are not confined to conventional lineage but are socially constructed and diverse.
POSTED ON 23-01-2026 BY ADMIN
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