Question

Recall the second discussion on cultural concepts of gender and gender types. Please quickly describe the anthropological understanding of gender. How do gender categories used in Hawaiian culture fit in this description? How does this compare to the larger American culture?

Answer 1

The anthropological understanding of gender is that it is a social and cultural construct. In Hawaiian culture, there are multiple gender categories beyond male and female. In comparison, larger American culture has a more rigid two-gender system, but there is a growing movement to embrace more gender flexibility.

Step-by-step explanation:

The anthropological understanding of gender is that it is not a natural expression of sex differences, but rather a social and cultural construct. Gender is shaped by people's ideas, social institutions, and everyday practices. Cultural anthropologists have found great diversity in gender systems across cultures.

In Hawaiian culture, there are multiple gender categories beyond just male and female. The mahu, for example, are individuals who embody both masculine and feminine qualities. They are considered a separate gender and are accepted and valued within Hawaiian society.

In comparison, larger American culture has a more rigid two-gender system that stigmatizes individuals who do not conform to the gender identity assigned to them at birth. However, there is a growing movement in American culture to embrace more gender flexibility and challenge traditional gender norms.