"Androgyny refers to a specific way of joining the 'masculine' and 'feminine' aspects of a single human being"
About this Quote
The quote by June Singer, "Androgyny refers to a specific way of joining the 'manly' and 'womanly' aspects of a single person", presents a principle that transcends standard gender functions and binaries. At its core, androgyny reflects an integration and balance in between qualities typically classified as 'masculine' and 'womanly.' This melding of characteristics is not necessarily physical or about outward look alone; instead, it speaks with a much deeper, mental synthesis within a person.
In historic and cultural contexts, androgyny has often been seen as an ideal state, wherein an individual embodies a series of human qualities rather than sticking to stiff gender expectations. The idea challenges the dichotomy that recommends males and females are fundamentally different and should stick to particular functions, qualities, or habits. Rather, androgyny celebrates the blending of these qualities, recommending that an individual can embody both strength and level of sensitivity, assertiveness and compassion, logic and intuition, regardless of their gender.
June Singer's point of view pushes us to re-evaluate how society normally views and constructs gender. By signing up with 'masculine' and 'womanly' aspects, a person can potentially attain a more holistic, integrated self. This integration fosters individual development and a greater understanding of the self, allowing people to reveal a full series of emotions and behaviors without being confined by social norms or expectations.
Furthermore, this principle promotes inclusivity and variety, as it permits room for uniqueness and special individual expression. It challenges poisonous masculinity and restrictive womanhood by acknowledging that qualities typically identified as 'manly' or 'feminine' are not inherently gendered however are part of a broad spectrum of human habits and personality.
In a broader sense, androgyny may also serve a social function, promoting for a more accepting and versatile understanding of identity. It invites dialogue around how cultural standards form our understanding of gender and motivates a shift towards more inclusive point of views that honor the intricacy of the human experience.