Final answer:
Gender refers to social and cultural constructs of masculinity and femininity, whereas sexuality relates to sexual orientation and behavior, which are also influenced by cultural norms. Both concepts are subject to contestation and are integral to discussions of equality and power dynamics within society. Cultural anthropologists and theorists like Judith Butler have contributed to the understanding of these concepts as social constructs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference between gender and sexuality as cultural arenas of contestation lies in their definitions and sociocultural implications. While sex refers to the biological differences between males and females, gender relates to the social and cultural characteristics associated with masculinity and femininity. Cultural anthropologists have studied how these concepts are embedded in various institutions and influence daily practices. The social construction of sexuality emphasizes the role of societal norms in shaping sexual behavior, contrasting with biological determinism, which attributes differences in behavior to biology. Moreover, the idea of sexuality is flexible within cultures, often challenged by the presence of same-sex practices even in heteronormative contexts. Gender inequality and its impacts on economic, social, and political domains have been subjects of protest and political action, notably within the feminist movement. Similarly, sexuality has been at the center of debates over power dynamics, especially in discussions concerning the legalization of gay marriage. From a conflict theory perspective, sexuality represents an additional field where power differentials are evident, and where dominant groups endeavor to preserve their worldviews and economic interests. Finally, through the influential works of scholars like Judith Butler, who considers gender as a performance, a deeper understanding of gender and sexuality as social constructs is fostered. This understanding is crucial for recognizing and addressing the inequalities faced by women, homosexuals, transgender individuals, and other subordinate groups within society.