Simplifying essentialism and Relational-Cultural Theory
What is essentialism?
Essentialism is the belief that men and women have deep-rooted, unchangeable differences based on biology. This is a basic overview, but the concept can be quite complex.
Relational-Cultural Theory (RCT) and essentialism:
RCT has always emphasized the importance (and challenge) of culture and relationships in shaping our identity and well-being. When neuroscience started to explore gender differences, some essentialist ideas entered RCT. For instance, neuroscience suggested that women might be inherently better at forming connections, which supports RCT’s emphasis on human connections but also feeds into gender stereotypes.
Essentialism and hierarchies
Essentialist thinking can lead to the creation of hierarchies, placing certain groups above others based on perceived inherent qualities. Maureen Walker writes about the pain and disconnection caused by hierarchies. They damage our relationships by promoting exclusion and power imbalances. For example, gender essentialism supports beliefs like:
- All boys have testicles
- All people who give birth are women
- Women are naturally better caregivers
- All women have ovaries
- Your gender is determined by your birth genitalia
These beliefs not only oversimplify gender but create a social ladder where some are seen as ‘more correct’ or ‘normal’ than others, impacting how we connect with each other.
The complexity of essentialism
While essentialist ideas like “born this way” or “born in the wrong body” can be affirming for LGBTQAI+ people, they can still fall into the trap of oversimplification. Our brains and identities are complex and diverse. The human brain is more or less nonbinary. It just makes sense to honor people’s stated gender identity; each person is the expert on their own experience!
RCT’s response to essentialism and hierarchies
RCT thrives in complexity and challenges. It encourages us to explore tough concepts and dismantle social hierarchies, including those born from essentialist viewpoints. RCT promotes inclusivity and understanding, embracing all genders and expressions. RCT is designed for messy conversations, for mucking around in hard concepts and staying connected. We can get in the MUD, the mystery, uncertainty, and doubt. We can include all the people we love, all the genders, all the expressions.
