Which perspective challenges essentialism by rejecting fixed structures and meanings?

Post-structuralist perspectives are known for challenging essentialism by emphasizing that meanings and structures are not fixed but rather constructed through discourse and social interactions. This theoretical approach argues that knowledge and meaning are contingent, fluid, and shaped by historical and cultural contexts. Rather than viewing identities or social categories as static and universal, post-structuralism highlights the complexities and ambiguities inherent in social life, suggesting that meanings can vary depending on context and interpretation.

This rejection of fixed structures allows for a more nuanced understanding of society, wherein categories like gender, race, and class become perceived as socially constructed rather than biologically determined. By doing so, post-structuralism fosters a critical view that encourages questioning dominant narratives and recognizing the diversity of experiences and identities within society.