TED Radio Hour Listen Again: The Biology Of Sex
Jul 16, 2021
Join artist and activist Emily Quinn as they share insights into their intersex identity, challenging societal norms. Radio journalist Molly Webster dives into the complexities of biological sex, urging listeners to reconsider simplistic definitions. Neuroscientist Lisa Mosconi discusses the intricate links between hormones, the brain, and women's health. Lastly, structural biologist Karissa Sanbonmatsu explores how epigenetics might influence biological sex and gender identity. Together, they unravel the multifaceted nature of sex beyond the binary.
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Emily Quinn's Childhood and Diagnosis
- Emily Quinn grew up in a conservative environment where womanhood was equated with motherhood.
- At 10, a gynecologist told her she had a disorder of sex development, a traumatic experience.
The Spectrum of Biological Sex
- Biological sex isn't binary but exists on a spectrum.
- Emily Quinn has XY chromosomes, a vagina, and internal testes, but doesn't respond to testosterone.
The Spectrum of Biological Sex and Gender
- Society is becoming more accepting of gender expression on a spectrum.
- However, biological sex is also on a spectrum, going beyond simply XX or XY.
