A Shift in Knowledge

Beyond the Binary

For much of history, people have understood gender as a binary: male or female, assigned at birth and fixed throughout life. This assumption shaped laws, customs, and social expectations. However, just as knowledge about the world has expanded—revealing new scientific discoveries, mathematical concepts, and medical advancements—so too has our understanding of gender. Gender, much like other evolving fields of knowledge, is more complex than the traditional categories suggest.

The discomfort some feel when confronted with discussions about nonbinary gender identities is not unlike the reactions people have had to changing educational standards, such as the introduction of modern math methods. People often resist shifts in understanding when they have grown comfortable with older systems. When newer mathematical techniques were introduced to improve comprehension and problem-solving, many dismissed them as unnecessary complications. Similarly, conversations about gender are sometimes seen as an unnecessary reworking of something that was previously considered simple. But, just like modern math provides deeper insights into numerical relationships, the expanded understanding of gender helps create a more inclusive and accurate framework for understanding human identity.

Historically, cultures around the world have recognized more than two genders. Indigenous North American tribes have long acknowledged Two-Spirit people, individuals who embody both masculine and feminine traits. South Asia recognizes Hijra, a distinct gender category. Samoa has Fa’afafine, and Mexico has Muxes—each representing gender diversity outside of the male-female binary. These identities are not new; they have existed for centuries, but mainstream Western discussions have only recently begun to acknowledge them.

Nonbinary identities, as part of the broader understanding of gender, challenge the notion that one’s sex assigned at birth dictates their entire identity and experience. Some nonbinary individuals feel a mix of both masculine and feminine traits, while others feel neither, existing outside the binary altogether. Some people experience fluidity in their gender over time. These experiences are not theoretical; they are deeply personal and integral to the lives of those who hold them.

A central aspect of gender identity discussions is the use of pronouns. Many nonbinary individuals use they/them pronouns to reflect their identity, while others use neopronouns like xe/xem or ze/zir. Some nonbinary people use a combination of pronouns, such as she/they or he/they, signaling a fluid or non-exclusive gender identity. While some may struggle with adjusting to new pronouns, linguistic shifts are a natural part of language evolution. Just as words like "fireman" evolved into "firefighter" to be more inclusive, pronoun use has adapted to reflect the realities of people’s experiences.

This shift in understanding does not erase traditional gender identities. Men and women continue to exist as they always have; rather, recognizing nonbinary identities expands the possibilities of gender expression rather than restricting them. For many, accepting this reality does not come naturally because society has historically structured itself around rigid gender roles. These roles dictated what careers people could pursue, how they could dress, and what behavior was considered appropriate. Many people, regardless of gender identity, have struggled under these restrictions. Men have been pressured to conform to narrow definitions of masculinity, while women have been confined by expectations of femininity. A broader understanding of gender allows individuals to exist as they are, rather than being forced into a predefined mold.

Resistance to change is understandable. It is human nature to feel more comfortable with what is familiar. But history has shown time and again that resistance to progress does not halt its course. When germ theory was first proposed, it was met with skepticism. Now, we accept handwashing and sterilization as fundamental medical practices. When seatbelt laws were introduced, people pushed back against the inconvenience. Now, they are a given. Change is often met with hesitation, but over time, as understanding deepens, what once seemed unnecessary or disruptive becomes standard knowledge.

Those who question the importance of recognizing nonbinary identities often ask, "Why does it matter?" The answer is simple: dignity, respect, and inclusion. For nonbinary individuals, acknowledgment of their identity can be the difference between feeling erased and feeling seen. Studies show that using a person’s correct pronouns significantly improves their mental health and well-being. Recognition and respect cost nothing but mean everything to those whose lives are affected by it.

Moreover, expanding our understanding of gender benefits everyone, not just those who identify outside the binary. It allows for greater freedom in expression, reduces stigma around gender nonconformity, and challenges outdated stereotypes that restrict people’s potential. A world in which gender roles are not rigidly enforced is one in which all individuals can thrive.

Rather than seeing these discussions as a burden, they can be viewed as an opportunity. Just as modern educational techniques aim to foster deeper understanding in mathematics, expanding the conversation around gender allows for a more nuanced, compassionate, and accurate view of human identity. Learning new things does not mean discarding the past; it means building upon it to create a future that accommodates everyone.

The world is changing, as it always has. Adjusting to these shifts is not about forced participation but about recognition—recognition that the binary model of gender was never truly complete, and that making space for all identities is a step toward a more understanding and inclusive society. Change may be uncomfortable, but it is also necessary. And, as history has shown, it often leads to a better, more informed world.