Sexual Diversity in the UK and Japan

Japan has a long history of sexual diversity; homosexuality appears to have been fairly common among Buddhist monks, while samurai warriors also often took male lovers. But during modern times the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) community has for the most part kept itself out of the limelight. The world of showbiz is to some extent an exception, and transgender personalities in particular are not uncommon on TV “talent” shows, though of course transvestitism is not necessarily linked to sexual orientation. (The prevalence of transgender people featuring in the world of Japanese entertainment may have its roots in traditional theatrical forms like Noh and Kabuki, in which female parts were played by men, and the parallel all-female Takarazuka Revue, founded in 1913.)

But although there are some signs of change (Shibuya Ward, in Tokyo, recently announced that it would formally recognise homosexual partnerships), Japanese society appears less tolerant of sexual diversity than the UK. By contrast, after allowing civil partnerships in 2004, England, Wales and Scotland have also legalised same-sex marriage in the past couple of years. Discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender reassignment is for the most part banned by law in the UK, though LGBT individuals still face some challenges in practice.

The seminar will also discuss the nature of discrimination and prejudice against lesbians, gay men and bisexuals; why such homophobia has existed in nearly every society throughout history; its recent manifestations and the possible psychological and social mechanisms that underlie it.