I think that what we believe to be normal is influenced by what we believe to be natural. Whether that view of what is natural is of some supernatural origins (i.e. Christianity), or of some more empirical origins (i.e. materialistic naturalism).

Either way: I think it’s vitally important that we do not confuse norms & normalization with what is natural. Because, it is not that case that when someone is divergent from a social norm that they are unnatural, or are acting unnaturally.

Norms are established by choice and action. Because of this, we all have a say in how we interact with norms, and I believe that if we can stop treating anyone who may not conform to what is considered to be “normal” as odd, or weird, or anything in any disparaging way, then we can start to make steps in a direction that will lead to more inclusive and less exclusive societies.

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