Middle Sexes

Jorge Turcios

Professor: Williams

Sociology 360

February 13, 2012

Middle Sexes: Defining He and She

1. What is the main thesis of this film?

Thesis of the film bases the argument that human beings are not sexually equal. That according to Western society, we are born either male or female, but this is not true. It is not black and white there are many variety of genders but socially it is hard to accepted and incorporate them into our society.

2. How does the thesis of this film relate to the course?

We are learning different social constructed ideas of what is “normal” and what is not. In our discussions we touched on topics that are very sensitive, and many of us are ignorant to these issues. For example, watching the film “Middle Sexes Redefining He or She”. Help me understand more about gender and that there are many more genders. That is not only about male and female, but also that there are varieties. Also, this film relates to the course because for it focus in understanding that if a person is not male or female, this person is consider deviant winch is the main topic of our course.

3. Which arguments/points did you find the most convincing?

From the beginning of the movie I noticed the parents being very concern about the child’s wellbeing. At the beginning of the movie Sylvia Guerrero, Gwen’s Mother said, “…during her transitioning that was my biggest fear.” Richard, Noah’s father also shared the same fear that Mrs. Guerrero, that someone will hurt their boys because of their gender identity. Our culture does not accept any other forms of gender base on cultural, religious, social norms.

4. Which arguments/points did you find the least convincing?

Religion is very difficult to understand, as we watched the film, the Indian people believe that cutting their genitals it is considered a sacrifice for the “God” However, for me religion and sexuality are two different things that are to complicated to combined I respect all opinions, however I don’t think they should be put together.

 5. Choose one argument, point or question that most stands out for you from the film. How would you study this point? Briefly design a research study around that point.

It is important that parents understand how difficult it is to make the decision for fixing their kids genitals. It is a process that the kind has to be involved. It is hard to know what the future will bring therefore it is better to wait.  For some of those kids that have gone under treatment can be very difficult to adjust when they grow older, especially if they feel different then what the parents choose for them. My research will study the different approaches families can take and provide solutions that will benefit the children.

Credits

WC-493

Works Cited

Middle Sexes: Redefining He and She. Dir. Antony Thomas. Perf. Gore Vidal, Calpernia Addams. HBO, 2005. Film