Philosophy without worldliness is a fiction – often dull, typically useless. Thus, my philosophical investigations, even at their most abstract, aim to capture realities that are experienced by flesh and blood people and that can have political and practical consequences.
As the brilliant María Lugones writes,
“I will not think what I will not practice” (Pilgrimages/Perigrinajes, 5).
Public Philosophy
My hope is that others can gain real benefit from my philosophical work. To this end, I am now turning towards a more public-facing philosophy. In these times, it is crucial for trans voices to be heard, and, moreover, there is a real need for new ways of thinking about trans people and our struggles. (This is a work-in-progress for me. So, watch out for future developments!)
Beyond Personhood:
An Essay in Trans Philosophy
This book is the culmination of my work thus far, pulling to the surface the ideas that I have been trying to articulate for years. It unfolds an entirely new theory of trans oppression and trans phoria (dysphoria, euphoria, and everything in-between). Unapologetically, this book is a demanding work of philosophy that, if understood rightly, contests basic assumptions about personhood, self-awareness, and moral status. While challenging, I also expect that trans folks and those who are very close to us will find that this work opens itself up to them in ways that it does not do so for others. Such is the nature of the content.
Performances
When traditional philosophy has failed me, I have turned to performance as a way to explore philosophical issues in less conventional ways. My art is a fusion of performed story-telling and philosophical experimentation. Using the liminal space of theatricality, I explore the limits of social reality and the elusive experience of self-recognition.
Publications
My philosophical investigations, even at their most abstract, aim to capture realities that are experienced by flesh and blood people and that can have political and practical consequences. My work flows from my personal experience as a trans woman and through being involved in trans community subcultures in Los Angeles for many years.