The Epistemology of the Closet

*The Epistemology of the Closet,* by Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick, explores how society's understanding of sexuality shapes knowledge and identity. It argues that Western culture historically views sexuality as either heterosexual or homosexual, creating a "closet" where non-conforming identities are hidden. This binary understanding influences how people perceive themselves and others, often leading to secrecy and repression. Sedgwick examines how language, social norms, and power dynamics contribute to maintaining this limited view, affecting mental health and social interactions. Overall, the book encourages us to rethink assumptions about sexuality and recognize the complex, fluid nature of human desire.