Animacies: Biopolitics, Racial Mattering, and Queer Affect

Mel Y. Chen explores the intricate intersections of biopolitics, race, and queer affect in a compelling examination of how societal perceptions shape the lives and identities of marginalized groups. Through a critical lens, Chen delves into the nuances of 'animacy'—how certain beings and identities are positioned as more or less alive, valuable, or deserving of rights and recognition. This analysis sheds light on the violent hierarchies embedded within societal constructs and challenges the reader to reconsider preconceived notions of what it means to exist and thrive within a world often dictated by rigid binaries.

Chen's insightful narrative weaves together theoretical frameworks and real-world implications, inviting readers to confront the complexities of mattering in contemporary discourse. By unpacking the relational dynamics of bodies and their perceived vitality, the work strengthens the dialogue around identity politics while advocating for a deeper understanding of how racial and sexual identities are constructed and contested. Ultimately, it serves not just as an academic treatise, but as a call for empathy and acknowledgment of diverse experiences.