Conferencia de Rita Segato: Instituciones y vulnerabilidad: Pensar la política en clave femenina

Name: Conferencia de Rita Segato: Instituciones y vulnerabilidad: Pensar la política en clave femenina
Uploaded: 2017-04-05T19:45:58.000Z
Duration: 3 h 34 min 36 s

Inaugural Conference on Doctorate Studies in Society and Culture

Introduction to the Speaker

The conference is introduced, focusing on "Institutions and Vulnerabilities: Thinking Politics from a Feminine Perspective" by Dr. Segato.

Dr. Segato is recognized for her extensive academic and political engagement with vulnerable and discriminated social groups, enhancing her insights into societal issues.

Reflections on Personal Connections

Dr. Segato expresses gratitude for the invitation and reflects on her connections with attendees, recalling a character from J.M. Coetzee's work who speaks freely at conferences.

She humorously mentions wanting to discuss animals but decides to focus instead on themes from her latest book, "The War Against Women."

Key Themes of "The War Against Women"

The book represents an evolution of Dr. Segato's thoughts on violence against women, tracing back to her work in Brazilian prisons since 1993.

In 2003, she published "The Elementary Structures of Violence," arguing that gender-based violence is expressive rather than merely instrumental, impacting society as a whole beyond just the victim-aggressor dynamic.

Understanding Masculinity and Violence

Dr. Segato discusses how masculinity mandates contribute significantly to violence against women, emphasizing that this relationship extends beyond direct aggression towards victims to include societal pressures among men themselves.

She identifies six powers defining masculinity: sexual power, military power, economic power, political power, moral power, and intellectual power—each requiring recognition from other men for validation.

Addressing Gender-Based Violence

The speaker highlights ongoing violence against women in Colombia despite peace agreements due to territorial exploitation motives; understanding this context is crucial for addressing such issues effectively.

Understanding Masculinity and War

The Role of Masculinity in Warfare

The mandate of masculinity is essential for war; without it, warfare cannot exist. This concept suggests that behind every military action lies a societal expectation of masculinity that demands the spectacle of power.

Disrupting this cycle requires men's understanding and participation. A significant debate within feminism revolves around whether men should join women's movements, which the speaker argues is a false dichotomy.

Men do not need to support women but must engage in the fight against masculinity for their own transformation into peaceful and happy individuals.

The necessity for men to recognize their own humanity is emphasized, as failing to meet masculine standards can compromise how they are perceived by other men.

Gender Dynamics and Violence

It’s noted that some women also conform to masculine mandates, seeking power and exhibiting violence. Thus, essentialist views on gender roles are challenged.

The representation of femininity and masculinity is discussed; while traditionally associated with female bodies and male bodies respectively, these identities can manifest across genders.

Structural Violence in Society

The discussion shifts to Ciudad Juárez as an example where masculine structures parallel mafia organizations. These relationships reinforce male alliances both socially and criminally.

Participation in these male networks often requires individuals to prove their cruelty or strength, reflecting a toxic culture that values aggression over empathy.

Impunity and Power Displays

In Ciudad Juárez, feminicides are interpreted not merely as acts of violence but as spectacles demonstrating power and jurisdictional sovereignty.

The speaker argues that these crimes serve to exhibit impunity rather than being products of competition among groups; they symbolize control over territory through fear.

Contemporary Warfare's Impact on Women

Modern warfare is described as strategically targeting women, indicating a shift towards using gendered violence as a means to destabilize communities.

Citing Mary Calder's work on Middle Eastern conflicts, the speaker notes how contemporary wars often aim at degrading societal morals by attacking women alongside cultural symbols like temples and wise figures.

Discontinuity of War and Gender Violence

Historical Context of War and Gender

The speaker references Elizabeth Odio's work on the history of war, highlighting a perceived discontinuity in the nature of cruelty during conflicts, particularly in the context of the Yugoslav Wars.

It is noted that women have historically suffered sexual violence during wars, with territorial conquests often involving assaults on women's bodies. This pattern continues but has evolved over time.

Transformation in Violence Against Women

The discussion emphasizes a shift from collective insemination to outright destruction of women's bodies as a means to attack communities and societies.

The book being discussed outlines three stages of this transformation without contradiction but rather as evolving phases.

Ideology and Education

A significant theme emerging in various Latin American countries is the accusation against what is termed "gender ideology," which seeks to criminalize certain educational content related to sexuality.

In Brazil, legislation threatens educators who discuss non-traditional sexualities, indicating a broader cultural backlash against gender discussions in education.

Current Societal Backlash

An example is provided where a university professor faces legal action for teaching feminist history, illustrating the severe implications for academic freedom and gender discourse.

There are widespread protests across Mexico and Brazil advocating for traditional family values, signaling a societal regression from multiculturalism towards more conservative ideologies.

Reflections on Multiculturalism

The speaker reflects on how current events represent a retreat from multicultural agendas towards an oppressive framework aimed at re-establishing traditional roles for women.

Experiences shared from conferences reveal tensions around discussing sensitive topics like abortion or compulsory heterosexuality within academic settings due to fear of backlash.

Paradigm Shift Post-Cold War

A historical analysis indicates that after the fall of the Berlin Wall, there was a paradigm shift in political discourse away from anti-systemic critiques towards new forms of ideological control.

Inclusive Politics and Multiculturalism

The Concept of Inclusive Politics

The speaker discusses the transformation of politics into a systemic, inclusive approach that integrates various aspects such as employment, education, and health within the framework of human rights.

Multiculturalism and Political Identity

A new paradigm emerges where multiculturalism represents the inclusion of diverse political identities in sectors like economy, education, and health. This reflects a shift towards recognizing varied identities within societal structures.

The Reality of Exclusion

Despite the push for inclusivity, the speaker argues that capitalism inherently leads to exclusion rather than inclusion. The discourse around inclusion often serves as agitation against this reality.

Historical Context of Inclusion Struggles

The fight for affirmative action in Brazil (e.g., quotas for Black students) is highlighted as an example of raising awareness about exclusion. This struggle aims to create space in society's discourse for those who lack access.

Shifts in Political Agendas

Over recent decades, there has been a regression from multiculturalism towards more traditional moral frameworks regarding gender roles. This shift is seen as detrimental to women's positions in society.

The Role of Women in Contemporary Politics

Gender Dynamics and Power Structures

The speaker critiques how women are being relegated back to subservient roles within political narratives, drawing parallels with historical depictions that undermine their agency.

Observations on Power Decisions

There is skepticism about how power dynamics operate without transparency. Regularities across different countries suggest a coordinated effort to re-establish traditional gender roles.

Market Dynamics and Identity Politics

Current multicultural agendas allow diverse identities to exist within capitalist frameworks but do not challenge underlying economic systems. This critique emphasizes superficial inclusivity without real change.

Contemporary Challenges Facing Women

Antagonists of Historical Projects

Those opposing progressive movements are labeled antagonists rather than enemies; they emphasize gender issues' centrality while pushing back against broader feminist goals.

Transversalization vs. Central Issues

The term "transversalize" is critiqued as euphemistic; it suggests sidelining critical issues affecting women by framing them as minor concerns instead of addressing them directly.

Emerging Threats and Societal Changes

Reflections on Recent Events

Personal anecdotes illustrate increasing oppression faced by women today, including discriminatory practices at airports that reflect broader societal changes toward fundamentalist ideologies.

Fundamentalism and Women's Roles

Economic and Political Power Dynamics

The Interconnection of Economic and Political Power

The speaker discusses the merging of economic power with political authority, highlighting that business leaders now occupy significant state positions in countries like the United States and Argentina.

There is a concern about the absence of representation, as businesses operate directly within government structures rather than through elected representatives.

Patriarchy and Control Mechanisms

The discussion shifts to patriarchal control, emphasizing its role in maintaining societal order and how it functions alongside capital interests.

The concept of "pedagogy of cruelty" is introduced, suggesting that society has normalized suffering and oppression under current power dynamics.

Wealth Concentration Trends

Reference is made to Oxfam's research on wealth concentration since 2009, revealing alarming statistics about the number of individuals holding wealth equivalent to half the global population.

A stark comparison shows a decrease from 288 wealthy individuals in 2010 to just eight or nine by recent counts, indicating extreme wealth concentration.

Historical Context: Feudalism vs. Modern Ownership

The speaker draws parallels between modern ownership dynamics and feudalism, noting that while feudal societies had common spaces, today's landscape sees a reduction in shared resources.

Indigenous communities face increasing encroachment on their lands as wealth accumulation leads to greater appropriation by elites.

Coloniality and Conquest Mentality

The notion of "conquistodidad" (conquest mentality) is discussed as an ongoing issue in contemporary society, likening historical conquests to present-day exploitation.

This phase of capitalism results in institutional failures due to extreme wealth disparities among a small elite group.

Desensitization and Authoritarian Control

A critical examination reveals how low empathy levels among individuals facilitate authoritarian governance; this desensitization allows for acceptance of suffering around them.

Observations are made regarding societal indifference towards human suffering, particularly highlighted during discussions about mortality rates in Mediterranean cities.

Media Influence on Perception

Discussion on Media Representation and Violence

Changing Perceptions of Violence in Media

The portrayal of violence in media today is significantly different from that of 20 years ago, highlighting a shift in societal sensitivity towards aggressive content.

"A Clockwork Orange," the most censored film ever, was banned even in its country of origin, England. Its initial release sparked outrage due to perceived violent content.

The actor from "A Clockwork Orange" reflected on his traumatic experience during filming, noting that the film's impact has diminished over time; it is now viewed as less violent.

The Concept of Cruelty Pedagogy

The term "pedagogy of cruelty" describes how media sensationalizes violence and suffering, particularly regarding feminicides, conditioning viewers to accept a cruel reality.

Despite increasing laws and public policies aimed at reducing violence against women, there remains an alarming persistence in rates of aggression and femicide.

Limitations of Legal Frameworks

There is a disconnect between the existence of laws intended to protect individuals and their actual effectiveness in changing behavior or reducing crime rates.

Laws only influence behavior if they are perceived as legitimate; mere threats of punishment do not guarantee compliance among individuals.

Gendered Violence and State Response

Patriarchal crimes encompass misogynistic acts as well as homophobic and racist offenses; these crimes reflect broader societal issues related to gender disobedience.

Disobedience against patriarchal norms is often met with aggression from those holding power, indicating systemic issues within societal structures.

Historical Context and Structural Inequality

The state structure reflects historical patriarchal values, complicating responses to grievances from marginalized groups who challenge traditional gender roles.

Understanding Domestic and Political Spaces

The Nature of Domestic Space

The concept of domestic space is characterized by its own deontology and political nature, suggesting that it is not merely private or intimate but has its own complexities and conflicts.

Transition from Pre-Colonial to Modernity

The transition from a communal world to a creole one marks the shift into modernity, where distinct spaces for men in politics and war emerge.

Transformation of Public and Private Spheres

As society modernizes, the public sphere evolves to encompass all political statements, while the domestic sphere becomes privatized, leading to a perception of women's issues as intimate matters.

Intersection of Law and Intimacy

There exists a disconnect between law and intimacy; even severe crimes involving women are often relegated to the realm of domesticity rather than being treated as public concerns.

Status vs. Contractual Relationships

The relationship between status (social standing) and contract (legal agreements) is complex; they coexist rather than exist in parallel, with status underpinning contractual relationships.

The Role of Gender in Political Discourse

Evolution of Subjectivity in Politics

The transformation from individual male subjects representing specific interests to a universal male subject signifies a shift towards broader human representation in political discourse.

Binarism: A Central Challenge

The binary opposition between center (universal truths) and margin (minorities' voices) poses significant challenges; dismantling this structure is crucial for addressing inequalities.

Historical Context of Patriarchy

Patriarchy is viewed as a universal form of inequality that has evolved over time, particularly intensifying during colonial expansion which led to more lethal forms against women.

Modernity's Impact on Violence Against Women

What Happens When We Shift from a Dual to a Binary World?

Understanding the Transition from Duality to Binarism

The transition from a dual world, characterized by explicit hierarchies, to a binary world is discussed. In a dual world, individuals understand their opposition and what they wish to change.

A binary world promotes the discourse of equality typical of modernity but reduces the 'other' to merely an extension of the 'one', lacking true independence or identity.

This shift results in the loss of political significance within domestic spaces, where practices that once fostered community and connection are diminished.

The Loss of Rhetoric and Community Practices

Modern colonial structures possess powerful rhetoric around productivity and individual freedom, overshadowing communal values that still exist in Latin America but lack formal recognition.

Communities have historical depth and symbolic density; they cannot be artificially created without losing their essence. Many newly formed collectives dissolve when immediate issues are resolved.

Gender Dynamics in Modernity

Within communities with rich histories, women navigate domestic spaces free from modern discriminatory rules like transphobia and homophobia.

Biological determinism emerges as a modern characteristic affecting race and gender, linking inequality directly to biology—a concept rooted in Cartesian thought intertwined with colonial processes.

Political Failures and New Directions

Both racialization and genderization lost their validating rhetoric during the transition to modernity, impacting women's political influence historically within their communities.

Presently, there is an observable failure of state institutions leading to calls for alternative political frameworks inspired by women's historical struggles rather than traditional patriarchal structures.

Discussion on Defeat and Economic Justice

Following Dr. Segato's presentation, there is an invitation for public discussion regarding contemporary defeats faced by women today compared to historical narratives like those found in "The Women of Troy."

Discussion on Masculinity and Social Issues

The Impact of Masculinity in Society

The speaker reflects on personal travel experiences, emphasizing that despite fears, the presence of women like Roxana does not pose a threat. However, they acknowledge the underlying issue of male vengeance in society.

The discussion shifts to urban communities affected by drug-related violence, highlighting how masculinity is often associated with obtaining weapons. Despite challenges, the speaker feels empowered through conversation and listening.

Acknowledgment of progress in policies affecting women's rights is made, but concerns are raised about land appropriation and migration's impact on cultural identity. The role of women in political parties is critiqued as superficial.

Contextual Challenges Faced by Women

Different territories present unique challenges for women—rural, urban, and indigenous perspectives must be considered to foster meaningful dialogue and hope for change.

Questions arise regarding generational roles in activism; each generation builds its own paradigms rather than merely acting as successors to previous movements.

Convincing Men: A Complex Challenge

The speaker expresses anxiety about convincing men to engage with feminist issues, questioning whether it’s realistic or overly optimistic to expect them to recognize their privilege and suffering.

There’s a concern that societal pressures diminish the desire for happiness among men due to capitalism's focus on possession over emotional fulfillment.

Understanding Victimhood and Aggression

A critical question arises about whether it's naive to think that men who hold power will willingly relinquish it. This skepticism extends to everyday interactions where aggression persists.

The need for a nuanced understanding of victimhood versus aggressor roles is emphasized. How can we explain these dynamics without falling into essentialist narratives?

Empathy vs. Hegemonic Masculinity

Discussion centers around dismantling hegemonic masculinity which undermines empathy towards others. It raises questions about community building amidst patriarchal structures.

Discussion on Women's Role and Societal Dynamics

The Role of Women in Society

Acknowledgment of the significant motivation derived from the discussion about women's roles in power dynamics.

Inquiry into how women contribute to perpetuating societal norms, particularly regarding negative values instilled during upbringing.

Concern raised about the potential destruction of humanity by its own actions, emphasizing the need for a shift in societal values.

Rebuilding Empathy and Values

Discussion on restoring positive rhetoric and empathy early in human development to modify behavior effectively.

Reflection on past political events in Argentina and Brazil that prompted deeper contemplation on societal issues.

Insights from Literature: "A Woman in Berlin"

Introduction to "A Woman in Berlin," a diary reflecting life during the last month of German defeat, highlighting resilience amidst chaos.

Description of extreme conditions leading to community formation despite lack of basic necessities; emphasizes human connection as vital for survival.

Lessons from Extreme Situations

The book illustrates how friendships can flourish even when material stability is lost, showcasing human adaptability.

Importance of recognizing shared humanity as a means to foster cooperation and mutual support during crises.

Historical Context: The Tapuya Women

Indigenous Perspectives

Sharing experiences with indigenous women, specifically focusing on the Tapuya tribe's historical challenges post-colonization.

Cultural Adaptation Post-Crisis

Narrative about a Tapuya woman who embodies cultural adaptation after her people faced near extinction due to colonization impacts.

Decisions Made for Survival

Account of three surviving women who decided to suspend traditional rules regarding kinship and marriage for survival purposes.

Pragmatic Politics and Women's Rights

The Role of Pragmatism in Political Identity

The discussion emphasizes the importance of pragmatism in maintaining cultural identity, particularly for women. It highlights the need to balance tradition with modernity while ensuring that communities remain cohesive.

The speaker notes that survival within political frameworks often requires a pragmatic approach to understanding and navigating existing norms, especially from a female perspective.

Violence and Political Agency

There is an exploration of how violent actions by men can be interpreted as revenge against women's emergence as autonomous political subjects. This reflects broader societal tensions regarding gender roles.

The speaker argues for analyzing violence not just through emotional lenses but also through its political dimensions, suggesting that cruelty can be linked to historical trends and individual psyches.

Psychoanalytic Perspectives on Responsibility

A psychoanalytic framework is introduced to discuss how individuals confront their violent actions, particularly in the context of male perpetrators discussing their crimes with difficulty.

The concept of "passage" is presented, indicating how social structures influence individual behavior and complicate notions of personal responsibility for violent acts.

Justice Beyond Prisons

The speaker shares insights from a South African meeting focused on anti-carceral feminism, arguing against prison as a solution for addressing violence or crime based on extensive experience working with offenders.

An examination of alternative justice systems among indigenous communities reveals more effective methods than modern punitive approaches, emphasizing community-based solutions over incarceration.

Ethical Considerations in Human Behavior

Two types of ethics are discussed: one rooted in dissatisfaction (unsatisfied ethical impulses), and another representing conservative values. This distinction helps understand human motivations within societal contexts.

Understanding Responsibility and Ethics

The Distinction Between Responsibility and Guilt

The speaker emphasizes that responsibility and guilt are distinct concepts, with responsibility linked to ethical reflection rather than mere compliance.

A responsible subject is one who critically examines their motivations and actions, contrasting with individuals who simply obey commands without questioning.

Ethical Implications of Obedience

The discussion highlights that perpetrators of violence often exhibit a moralistic demeanor, as they follow societal norms without self-reflection.

Institutional struggles yield significant relational benefits among activists, emphasizing the importance of community over legislative victories.

Challenges in Institutional Structures

State Structure and Gender Dynamics

The speaker critiques state structures for perpetuating colonial legacies that distance governance from the populace, particularly affecting women.

Women entering state institutions face challenges due to existing patriarchal frameworks that require them to conform to male-dominated norms.

Case Studies on Violence Against Women

An example is provided where a woman repeatedly reports domestic violence but is not taken seriously by authorities until it results in tragedy.

This case illustrates the systemic failures in addressing women's complaints within institutional settings, highlighting the urgent need for reform.

Communication Barriers in Male-Dominated Spaces

Gendered Communication Challenges

Women's voices are often marginalized; their communication styles may not be respected or understood within male-dominated forums.

The speaker reflects on personal experiences of navigating these spaces while maintaining authenticity despite societal pressures to conform.

Redefining Political Discourse

There’s a call for creating political environments where women can express themselves authentically without needing to adopt masculine traits for validation.

The Role of Theory in Understanding Reality

Conceptual Framework Limitations

Theories do not merely describe reality; they prescribe ways of understanding it. Different theories illuminate various aspects but can also contradict each other.

Effective theoretical frameworks must resonate with lived experiences; however, there are barriers when attempting to translate concepts across cultural contexts.

Understanding Happiness and Community

The Nature of Happiness

The speaker expresses a personal belief that no man has been happier than he is, emphasizing the importance of community over individualism in achieving happiness.

He critiques capitalism for fostering loneliness by prioritizing material acquisition, which leads to individuals feeling isolated rather than connected.

Critique of Democratic Policies

The speaker discusses how past governments mistakenly equated democratic policies with increased consumption, failing to recognize the importance of social bonds.

He argues that sacrificing productivity and competitiveness for community ties is essential for true happiness, particularly in Latin American contexts.

Community vs. Individualism

The speaker posits that solitary individuals cannot be truly happy; choosing community-oriented values leads to fulfillment.

He challenges the notion that aggressive or competitive behaviors are indicators of happiness, suggesting they stem from insecurity rather than contentment.

Masculinity and Power Dynamics

The Mandate of Masculinity

Discusses how societal expectations impose a cruel mandate on masculinity, where men feel pressured to dominate and prove their strength through violence or aggression.

Highlights the role of male leaders in indigenous communities as intermediaries who must balance their loyalty between their community and external pressures from colonial powers.

Gender Relations

Emphasizes that gender relations are inherently power dynamics; both men and women contribute to these structures but experience them differently.

Notes that some women may also struggle against imposed roles, indicating a shared challenge across genders regarding societal expectations.

Socialization Processes

Differences in Socialization

Explores anthropological perspectives on male initiation rituals, which often involve violent separation from maternal figures compared to women's more continuous connection with family.

Cites Nancy Chodorow's work on gender socialization, noting how boys undergo processes that alienate them from nurturing relationships while girls maintain closer ties with their mothers.

Ethical Considerations

Discusses the implications of different socialization experiences on psychological development for males versus females.