Solidarity beyond Sexuality: The Personal Communities of Gay Men

Abstract

The relevance of community in the face of mounting individualism remains a pressing sociological issue. Social fragmentation challenges traditional communities of shared identifications and collective memberships while flexible relationship options lead sociologists to question the real benefits of friendships and the viability of personal commitments. These issues are sharply defined in current debates about 'gay community' and whether sexual practices can generate solidarity among a diversified social group. AIDS educators have long relied on notions of 'gay community attachment' and sociologists enthusiastically explore the innovative potential of gay and lesbian friendships for rethinking community today. Drawing evidence from a national e-male survey of the social relationships and sexual behaviour of over 4000 gay and bisexual men, we suggest that community pessimism is exaggerated. We contest unified sexualized notions of (gay) community and identify a potential for solidarity within these men's friendships, sexual relationships and personal communities.