Vital forces, selves, and consent

responding to a philosophical love letter

Abstract

In this response to Helga Varden’s Sex, Love, and Gender: A Kantian Theory, I challenge Varden’s characterization of
postmodern approaches to sexual orientation and identity, arguing that it is mistaken to assume an opposition between social
constructionism and reality, or social constructionism and an experience of deep-seated identity. I also question whether, once
one takes into account the effects of hegemonic heterosexuality, consent can function effectively in the legal realm to identify
acts of sexual assault and hold perpetrators responsible. Throughout my discussion, I applaud Varden’s loving approach toward
Kant’s theories.