Abstract

CASALES GARCIA, Roberto. Identity and Performance: A Critical Review of Butler’s Theory of Gender through Leibniz. Tópicos (México) [online]. 2023, n.66, pp.97-118.  Epub June 19, 2023. ISSN 0188-6649.  https://doi.org/10.21555/top.v660.2159.

This paper analyzes Butler’s theory of performative acts and her criticism of a substantialist or essentialist theory of gender through the Leibnizian theory of intentional action, with the aim of showing that we cannot dissociate performativity of intentionality, nor, consequently, of a practical understanding of personal identity. To achieve this goal, I proceed as follows: first, I analyze Butler’s theory of gender and her notion of performativity through her critique of naturalistic or essentialist theories of gender; second, I confront her theory of performativity with the Leibnizian theory of intentional actions and his notion of moral agency; third, I sketch two conclusions: 1) we can only talk about performativity in terms of intentionality, and 2) talking about performative acts does not imply dissociating gender from our personal identity.

Keywords : Leibniz; personal identity; Butler; performativity; gender.