Sexualidad en el debate francés sobre el pañuelo islámico

Abstract

«Sexuality». Controversy over the veil brought forth contradictions latent in French republicanism. The «covered» system of gender relations requiring codes to check the social dangers of sexuality posed a disturbing challenge to the «open» (French) system in which the accessibility of the female body to the male gaze is part and parcel of gender interactions the French celebrate. The republican principles of universalism and equality are based on an abstract individualism that claims sameness, ignoring differences even though sexual difference thwarts real equality. Arguments over the headscarf disclosed national and sexual differences that French republicanism fails to face fully, allowing universalism and equality to cover up the Republic’s own contradictions, thus contributing to a reaffirmation of French superiority.