The construction of heteronationalism in Singapore: a Foucauldian discourse analysis of 'vulnerable heterosexual' narratives

Abstract

This study explores discourses surrounding the repeal of section 377A to understand how heteronationalism has been constructed in Singapore through the use of narratives of ‘vulnerable heterosexuality’. The present study reviewed a total of 1311 articles from news outlets, religious organisations and parliamentary debates. Through the use of Foucauldian discourse analysis, it was found that the vulnerable heterosexual narratives mainly employed slippery slope arguments, bringing in concerns for children and the future of the nation – all of which presented heterosexuality in nationalistic language. Vulnerable heterosexuality thus paints a narrative of a zero-sum game between the institution of heterosexuality and its opposing forces. Heteronationalism is then constructed within such narratives, where heterosexuality is argued to be central to the foundation of Singapore society today whilst illustrating a need to exclude homosexuality due to the breakdown in society that could occur if politically motivated activists were to get their way.