Troubling Taxonomy: A Comparative Analysis that Demonstrates Why the Concept of Transgender Does not Travel Outside of the Global North

Abstract In this work the authors explore the distinct yet interconnected nature of gender and sex, challenging the prevalent conflation of these concepts in the Global North. The imposition of this conflation necessitates the term “transgender” to describe individuals whose gender identity diverges from their assigned sex at birth. Utilizing Global North literature in dialogue with Brazil and Thailand, the authors examine travestis and toms , demonstrating how their identities defy conventional Global Northern norms of gender and sex. In doing so, we critically analyze the impact of colonialism on the application of Global Northern taxonomies to non-global North identities, urging a nuanced understanding of diverse human experiences. Researchers from the Global North can contribute to a nuanced understanding of sex, gender, and sexuality by challenging the problematic conflation of sex and gender. To achieve this, a culturally humble approach is crucial, by centering the voices of individuals from non-global Northern backgrounds and avoiding reductionism, colonialism, erasure, and distortion. We ultimately call for sexuality scholars to respect diverse identities, resist applying Global Northern frameworks, and recognize the intrinsic value of human diversity in all its forms.