For my final project in the course What We See, What We Believe, I explored the social construction of heterosexuality and its reinforcement through heteronormativity in contemporary Western society. Titled Heterosexuality as the Default, my research examined how historical, media, and religious influences have shaped perceptions of heterosexuality as the norm, often to the detriment of non-heterosexual identities.
The paper traced the evolution of heterosexuality from a medically-defined pathology in the 1800s to its normalization as a societal expectation in the 20th century. It analyzed how heteronormativity is perpetuated in popular media, such as films and television shows, which frame relationships through a predominantly heterosexual lens, influencing attitudes from childhood. Additionally, I examined the role of religion in embedding these norms, particularly within Christianity, which has historically marginalized homosexuality through its teachings and narratives.
This project emphasized the power of socially constructed beliefs in shaping individual identities and societal attitudes. Through this work, I developed a nuanced understanding of how deeply ingrained cultural norms can perpetuate inequality and gained valuable skills in research, critical thinking, and academic writing.