A Social Experiment on Sex and Gender: Are Pressures to Conform Fewer for Men?

Many people use the terms "sex" and "gender" interchangeably. Others do not. For me, "sex" refers to physical characteristics - reproductive organs. "Gender," then, is used to distinguish psychological traits - behaviors. This means at least two things: First, there are more than two sexes; second, gender is learned.

Everyone knows of the existence of hermaphrodites, but this truth is largely ignored by society. Acknowledging their being would further complicate an already complex social world. Most are simply not ready for this. How would we to treat those with both male and female sexual organs? What expectations could our society create for yet another category of gender?

A few years ago, during my freshman year of college, I decided to take "Intro to Women's Studies" for one of my social science credits (well, actually, for three.) I can't remember if I had been told good thing about the course, or whether I just happened upon the description whilst browsing the schedule of courses. I think it was the latter. Although, I guess in the grand scheme of things, that detail isn't important.

However, the decision proved to be one of great significance in the forming of my entire educational experience, as I had thrust myself into a world of absolute wonder. The discussions that existed within this newfound environment were both truthful and insightful. They made me question why I had never previously been subject to the teachings of this atmosphere.

Everything made sense, and it was as though I was discovering an alternate realm of possibility into which very few put stock, but which, despite this prior fact, speaks volumes about the whole of our society. Studying there not only provides access to the theories of others, but also, and perhaps more importantly, unlocks the tools inside each inhabitant to create his or her own.

My first test came rather early in my trip.