De-Gendering Neuro-Images: Contingencies in the Construction of Visualization Technologies and Their Use for Establishing Sex-Differences

Abstract

In complex contexts and environments, it is necessary for scientific investi- gations, which respect the findings of gender studies, to withstand simplifi- cations of gender and sex distinctions or non-distinctions. The severe consequences that may follow when such demands are disregarded will be made clear in this article. It will be demonstrated here for medical imaging technologies that these artefacts are not at all unique, reproducible or reliable, in any sense that can be claimed as objective.

Keywords:

• Gendering
• De-gendering
• Co-construction of gender and technology
• fMRT images
• Visual persuasiveness
• Medical imaging
• Feminist empiricism
• Critical empiricism

I would like to thank Elizabeth Pollitzer very much for helpful comments and suggestions and for corrections of my English.