Meaning: Judith Butler, a prominent philosopher and gender theorist, is known for her influential work in feminist and queer theory. The quote "I would say that I'm a feminist theorist before I'm a queer theorist or a gay and lesbian theorist" encapsulates Butler's prioritization of feminist theory in her intellectual and theoretical framework. In this quote, Butler clarifies her primary identification as a feminist theorist, emphasizing the centrality of feminist perspectives in her scholarly and activist endeavors.

Butler's statement reflects her commitment to feminist principles and her recognition of the enduring significance of gender as a critical category of analysis. As a feminist theorist, Butler engages with the complexities of gender, power, and social norms, challenging conventional understandings of identity and subjectivity. Her work has been instrumental in reshaping contemporary discourses on gender and sexuality, offering profound insights into the ways in which gender operates as a performative and socially constructed phenomenon.

In the context of feminist theory, Butler's emphasis on the performative nature of gender has been particularly influential. She argues that gender is not an inherent or fixed attribute but rather a repeated performance that is produced and maintained through social norms and practices. This understanding of gender as performative has significant implications for feminist thought, as it underscores the fluidity and variability of gender identities and expressions. By foregrounding the performative dimension of gender, Butler challenges essentialist conceptions of femininity and masculinity, opening up new possibilities for reimagining gender relations and social structures.

Furthermore, Butler's commitment to feminist theory aligns with her broader philosophical project of critiquing oppressive power structures and advocating for social transformation. Through her engagement with feminist perspectives, Butler seeks to uncover the ways in which gendered norms and expectations intersect with other forms of oppression, such as racism, classism, and ableism. By situating her intellectual work within the framework of feminist theory, Butler underscores the interconnectedness of various systems of power and the urgent need to address intersecting inequalities.

While Butler's identification as a feminist theorist is central to her intellectual orientation, it is important to note that her scholarship also encompasses significant contributions to queer theory and LGBTQ+ studies. Her exploration of non-normative forms of gender and sexuality has been influential in expanding the scope of queer theory, challenging binary understandings of sexual orientation and identity. Butler's concept of "queer performativity" has broadened the understanding of gender and sexual diversity, emphasizing the subversive potential of non-conforming identities and practices.

In conclusion, Judith Butler's quote highlights her deep-seated commitment to feminist theory and its foundational role in her intellectual and activist endeavors. As a feminist theorist, Butler has made enduring contributions to the fields of gender studies, queer theory, and critical theory, reshaping our understanding of gender, sexuality, and power. Her emphasis on the performative nature of gender and her intersectional approach to social justice issues have significantly enriched feminist scholarship and paved the way for more inclusive and transformative perspectives on gender and sexuality.