ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces the interconnections between sexuality, state, and nation and highlights why it is crucial to understand them. Defining the concepts of nationalism, and state, it carefully shows that ideas of “normal” sexuality are socially produced and are fundamental to how national identity is defined and how states regulate society. Using a range of examples, the chapter provides an overview of the ways that nations and states use sexuality to draw lines of inclusion and exclusion around race, religion, and other aspects of social difference. Lastly, it explores why it is important to be attentive to and critical of the ways that states privilege heterosexuality or seek to promote LGBTQ rights for political gain.
