Catholic Medical Quarterly Volume 75(3) August 2025
Book Review
Transgenderism: A Question of Identity
by
Francis Etheredge.. En Route Books and Media
Reviewed by Dr Pravin Thevathasan
The
Supreme Court of the United Kingdom has unanimously concluded that there
is a real difference between a biological woman and a "trans-gender
woman." This is big news: many individuals have been persecuted for saying
just that. It is a vital issue because it is a question of identity.
Our identity matters, says the author of this superb and timely book. God has made us male and female and that complementarity is essential to our nature and vocation. Ultimately, it is our enemy who seeks our destruction by means of attacking the biological family.
The author notes that while we are called to show charity towards the transgendered person, chemical and surgical means have been applied for that person to appear what he or she is not in essence. Why has there been such a rapid escalation in so-called gender affirming care? The breakdown in the family and peer and social pressure are surely things to be taken into account. But the author also notes that doctors are making a great deal of money from this.
But, surely, is it not good to improve the psychological wellbeing of those who suffer from gender dysphoria? The author cites research that indicate that far from improving mental health, transition may lead to higher rates of depression and suicidal ideation and behaviour.
As a lot of people have pointed out recently, common sense has prevailed. It makes no sense for a biological male to take part in a sporting event when the rest of those participating are biological women.
The author has noted that transgenderism affects and afflicts persons and society. It is also a profoundly spiritual affliction.