Reference no: EM133371277

Continuing our discussion from last week, the readings this week focus on societal expectations that are placed upon people. These readings focus on cultural norms (rules for behaviors that are expected and reinforced across an entire culture) related to gender and sexuality, all within the context of embodiment (our physical bodies). The texts ask us to consider how our identities and bodily-identities are shaped in compliance - or opposition - with the cultural values we are expected to follow. These texts bring up cultural dynamics that impact our identities and shape how we see the world and how the world sees us in response.

Spend some time discussing the major takeaways you had from one (or more) of the texts this week. How does culture communicate messages about "acceptable" gender and sexuality, and what happens when a person's gender expression, gender identity, and sexuality doesn't align with the cultural value? Are there rules about what kinds of bodies are acceptable and not acceptable? Why/why not? How do you feel after engaging with these texts? Do the situations in the texts remind you of what is happening in our world today? Please share at least one quote from one of the texts (either Orbach, Nze, or Taylor) that made an impression on you and tell your peers what you think it means and why it matters to you.