ABSTRACT
This chapter covers the concept of pleasure and how it is understood in the context of sexuality, in particular queer and trans sexuality. The chapter begins with a broad review of pleasure and its opponents, exploring the more foundational aspects of how we conceptualise and experience pleasure. The chapter then introduces queer perspectives on the subject of pleasure, including both sexual and non-sexual pleasure. Finally, the chapter discusses the trans-specific aspects of pleasure and how denial of pleasure, sexual or otherwise, rests at the root of many issues surrounding trans sexuality, health, and overall wellbeing. The chapter concludes with a discussion of how these trans-specific perspectives can inform broader approaches to sex and sexuality, and the interconnectivity between trans liberation, pleasure, and political movements.
