Theory & Philosophy Jasbir K. Puar's "Terrorist Assemblages" (Part 1 of 2)
Mar 15, 2025
Delve into the intriguing concept of 'Terrorist Assemblages,' where intergenerational trauma meets American imperialism. Explore how narratives of gay liberation are co-opted to justify violence, scrutinizing the oversimplification of Middle Eastern identities. The discussion on feminism and queer politics in the post-9/11 landscape reveals marginalized voices and complex identities. Additionally, the podcast critiques Western media's portrayal of Muslims and the manipulative narratives surrounding LGBTQ+ rights, questioning the authenticity of alliances within the community.
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Homonationalism and Empire
- Jasbir Puar investigates homonationalism within American empire.
- She explores how the fantasy of liberation justifies colonial violence, especially against Middle Eastern people.
Contradictory Orientalism
- Imperialist logic often uses contradictory narratives.
- The Middle East is sometimes depicted as sexually depraved, other times as prudish, to suit the justifications of empire.
Israel and Sexual Exceptionalism
- The Israeli genocide exemplifies how sexual exceptionalism justifies violence.
- Palestinians are portrayed as sexually limited, while Israelis, despite committing atrocities, wave pride flags.