Gay Rights, Gay Marriage, Homophobia: Ethical, Political Issues
Those who oppose gay marriage do so with a vehemence: it's not simply that they would rather not see it exist, but rather that they regard gay marriage as perhaps the greatest moral and social evil to occur since the legalization of abortion. They cannot be dismissed as mere cranks - it is important to understand what their arguments are in order to determine how good their case is and to refute it if their position is unsound.
Gay Rights vs. Religious Freedom
Opposition to equal civil rights for gays comes in many forms. Religious conservatives are losing the argument that there is something necessarily wrong with homosexuality, so they appear to be turning to a new one: treating gays like fully equal citizens and human beings is incompatible with conservatives%u2019 religious liberty.
Opposition to equal civil rights for gays comes in many forms. Religious conservatives are losing the argument that there is something necessarily wrong with homosexuality, so they appear to be turning to a new one: treating gays like fully equal citizens and human beings is incompatible with conservatives%u2019 religious liberty.
Christians Who Support Torture are Supporting Evil
Perhaps the most important thing about marriage is the way in which it creates new kinship ties. Marriage is in fact the primary means through which a person acquires new relatives and close social relations - people for whom you are expected to sacrifice and who are expected to sacrifice for you.
Perhaps the most important thing about marriage is the way in which it creates new kinship ties. Marriage is in fact the primary means through which a person acquires new relatives and close social relations - people for whom you are expected to sacrifice and who are expected to sacrifice for you.
The Divorce Vaccine: Would Christians Take It?
What if scientists could create a vaccine that prevented people from divorcing? Far-fetched, I know, but given how much religious conservatives have to oppose divorce in order to defend "traditional" marriage, it's not unreasonable to wonder what they would think of such a vaccine.
What if scientists could create a vaccine that prevented people from divorcing? Far-fetched, I know, but given how much religious conservatives have to oppose divorce in order to defend "traditional" marriage, it's not unreasonable to wonder what they would think of such a vaccine.
Gay Marriage Helps Improve Marriage for Everyone
Opponents of gay marriage most commonly argue that if gay couples are allowed to marry on an equal basis with straight couples, then traditional marriage will be undermined and eventually destroyed. It's the same argument they have been making against other changes for decades - but what does the evidence say? Contrary to supporting their claims, the evidence points in the opposite direction.
Opponents of gay marriage most commonly argue that if gay couples are allowed to marry on an equal basis with straight couples, then traditional marriage will be undermined and eventually destroyed. It's the same argument they have been making against other changes for decades - but what does the evidence say? Contrary to supporting their claims, the evidence points in the opposite direction.
Civil Rights for Blacks, Civil Rights for Gays
Many opponents of social and political equality for gays bristle at the mere suggestion that efforts to secure that equality has any similarity to the struggle for civil rights and quality for blacks in America. Even when they argue against this comparison, though, they often end up making arguments very much like those of the racists who hated blacks.
Many opponents of social and political equality for gays bristle at the mere suggestion that efforts to secure that equality has any similarity to the struggle for civil rights and quality for blacks in America. Even when they argue against this comparison, though, they often end up making arguments very much like those of the racists who hated blacks.
Gay Marriage & Gay Rights Resources: Gay Marriage & Gay Rights are Civil Rights
Gay rights and gay marriage are central battles in America's culture wars for two reasons. First, the growing acceptance of homosexuality is a direct threat to the domination of traditional Christian norms for sex and sexuality. Second, marriage is not only an important cultural symbol, but an example of how heterosexuals are privileged -- and heterosexual privilege is one of the few remaining unjust social privileging systems in America.
Gay rights and gay marriage are central battles in America's culture wars for two reasons. First, the growing acceptance of homosexuality is a direct threat to the domination of traditional Christian norms for sex and sexuality. Second, marriage is not only an important cultural symbol, but an example of how heterosexuals are privileged -- and heterosexual privilege is one of the few remaining unjust social privileging systems in America.
Arguments for Gay Marriage: Moral and Social Arguments for Gay Marriage
Debates over gay marriage involve both legal and social arguments, for and against. Legal arguments on behalf of gay marriage tend to get more attention because it should be a matter of basic civil and equal rights. Even if gay marriage were harmful, the equality and dignity of gay couples should be respected, though it's not true, or at least not demonstrable, that gay marriage would be harmful. On the contrary, there are good reasons to think that legalized gay marriage would benefit us all.
Debates over gay marriage involve both legal and social arguments, for and against. Legal arguments on behalf of gay marriage tend to get more attention because it should be a matter of basic civil and equal rights. Even if gay marriage were harmful, the equality and dignity of gay couples should be respected, though it's not true, or at least not demonstrable, that gay marriage would be harmful. On the contrary, there are good reasons to think that legalized gay marriage would benefit us all.
Common Arguments Against Gay Marriage: Moral and Religious Arguments
The debate over the legalization of gay marriage in America is about more than just the status of gay couples; it's also about the future of American civil law. Either civil law is defined by the needs and rights of citizens, or civil laws will be placed under the dominion of religious laws and gay marriage will remain banned. Gay marriage furthermore represents a threat to established norms of authority, identity and power.
The debate over the legalization of gay marriage in America is about more than just the status of gay couples; it's also about the future of American civil law. Either civil law is defined by the needs and rights of citizens, or civil laws will be placed under the dominion of religious laws and gay marriage will remain banned. Gay marriage furthermore represents a threat to established norms of authority, identity and power.
Religious Beliefs & Religious Acts: Religously Motivated Discrimination
Conservative Christians are failing to convince enough people that homosexuality is abhorrent enough to justify restricting gays' civil liberties. Their new tactic is to argue that substantively recognizing the equality of gays would require violating the First Amendment. Christians' belief in God's condemnation of homosexuality is claimed to be so important that forcing them to treat gays equally means forcing them to violate their religious beliefs.
Conservative Christians are failing to convince enough people that homosexuality is abhorrent enough to justify restricting gays' civil liberties. Their new tactic is to argue that substantively recognizing the equality of gays would require violating the First Amendment. Christians' belief in God's condemnation of homosexuality is claimed to be so important that forcing them to treat gays equally means forcing them to violate their religious beliefs.
Religious Right to Deny Gays Equality
Acceptance of gays continues to grow in America, but for many there remains a strong conviction that homosexuality is abhorrent, that gays are violating some of God's most basic commandments for humanity, and even that the presence and acceptance of gays in America is abhorrent to God. Some conclude that the constitutional guarantee of religious liberty protects both their right to believe such things and a right to act on these beliefs. They are wrong.
Acceptance of gays continues to grow in America, but for many there remains a strong conviction that homosexuality is abhorrent, that gays are violating some of God's most basic commandments for humanity, and even that the presence and acceptance of gays in America is abhorrent to God. Some conclude that the constitutional guarantee of religious liberty protects both their right to believe such things and a right to act on these beliefs. They are wrong.
Marriage: Religious Rite or Civil Right?
Many argue that marriage is essentially and necessarily a religious rite -- they conceive of marriage in almost exclusively religious terms. Therefore, legalizing gay marriage constitutes a type of sacrilege and an unjustified intrusion of the state into what is necessarily a religious matter. Because of religion's traditional role in sanctifying marriages and presiding over wedding ceremonies this is understandable, but it's also incorrect.
Many argue that marriage is essentially and necessarily a religious rite -- they conceive of marriage in almost exclusively religious terms. Therefore, legalizing gay marriage constitutes a type of sacrilege and an unjustified intrusion of the state into what is necessarily a religious matter. Because of religion's traditional role in sanctifying marriages and presiding over wedding ceremonies this is understandable, but it's also incorrect.
Arguments Against Gay Marriage: Marriage is a Sacred Religious Sacrament
Although rarely offered as an explicit argument against gay marriage, the idea that marriage is a sacred religious sacrament is one of the most important arguments for opponents and underlies much of the vehemence which motivates them in a way that the other arguments fail to explain. Indeed, if it weren't for the idea that marriage is sacred, it seems unlikely that the debate would be as rancorous as it is.
Although rarely offered as an explicit argument against gay marriage, the idea that marriage is a sacred religious sacrament is one of the most important arguments for opponents and underlies much of the vehemence which motivates them in a way that the other arguments fail to explain. Indeed, if it weren't for the idea that marriage is sacred, it seems unlikely that the debate would be as rancorous as it is.
Arguments Against Gay Marriage: Marriage is for Having Children
The idea that gay couples can't marry because of the disconnect between homosexuality and procreation cuts across many arguments against gay marriage. Gay marriage would be 'unnatural' because it can't produce children, the natural end of marriage. Gay marriage would undermine marriage because it is a legal and moral institution designed to promote and protect procreation and raising of children. Gay marriage would desecrate God's mandate that heterosexual couples have to mate and procreate.
The idea that gay couples can't marry because of the disconnect between homosexuality and procreation cuts across many arguments against gay marriage. Gay marriage would be 'unnatural' because it can't produce children, the natural end of marriage. Gay marriage would undermine marriage because it is a legal and moral institution designed to promote and protect procreation and raising of children. Gay marriage would desecrate God's mandate that heterosexual couples have to mate and procreate.
What is Marriage Between a Man and a Woman?
Those who argue against gay marriage insist that the only marriages between men and women are legitimate, but what about those who are not quite male or female - at least not according to the definitions usually employed? Defining marriage in terms of sex begs the question of how we define the sexes - how we define who is a 'man' and who is a 'woman.' Deciding who can marry whom isn't always a simple matter of determining what sorts of internal organs a person has.
Those who argue against gay marriage insist that the only marriages between men and women are legitimate, but what about those who are not quite male or female - at least not according to the definitions usually employed? Defining marriage in terms of sex begs the question of how we define the sexes - how we define who is a 'man' and who is a 'woman.' Deciding who can marry whom isn't always a simple matter of determining what sorts of internal organs a person has.
Gay Rights & Marriage vs. Religious Liberty
Opposition to equal civil rights for gays comes in many forms. Religious conservatives are losing the argument that there is something necessarily wrong with homosexuality, so they appear to be turning to a new one: treating gays like fully equal citizens and human beings is incompatible with conservatives’ religious liberty. Since when did the preservation of religious liberty require treating members of a minority like second-class citizens?
Opposition to equal civil rights for gays comes in many forms. Religious conservatives are losing the argument that there is something necessarily wrong with homosexuality, so they appear to be turning to a new one: treating gays like fully equal citizens and human beings is incompatible with conservatives’ religious liberty. Since when did the preservation of religious liberty require treating members of a minority like second-class citizens?
Gay Marriage vs. Divorce & Remarriage
Religious conservatives are fierce defenders of the idea that gay marriage must be absolutely prohibited to 'save' traditional marriage. They even argue that anything remotely resembling marriage, like civil unions, must be banned as well. If we ignore how most of this position is tied inextricably to religious ideology, and focus solely on the claim that traditional marriage is in danger, what do we find? Inconsistency and hypocrisy.
Religious conservatives are fierce defenders of the idea that gay marriage must be absolutely prohibited to 'save' traditional marriage. They even argue that anything remotely resembling marriage, like civil unions, must be banned as well. If we ignore how most of this position is tied inextricably to religious ideology, and focus solely on the claim that traditional marriage is in danger, what do we find? Inconsistency and hypocrisy.
Arguments Against Gay Marriage: Gay Couples are Unnatural
The idea that gay marriage is wrong because gay couples are somehow unnatural is not often stated openly, but this premise influences other arguments and lies behind many people's negative opinions about homosexuality in general. For most people, heterosexual relationships are the norm, both in society and in nature. Homosexual relationships are thus abnormal and unnatural; therefore, they shouldn't be validated by the state nor recognized as a form of marriage.
The idea that gay marriage is wrong because gay couples are somehow unnatural is not often stated openly, but this premise influences other arguments and lies behind many people's negative opinions about homosexuality in general. For most people, heterosexual relationships are the norm, both in society and in nature. Homosexual relationships are thus abnormal and unnatural; therefore, they shouldn't be validated by the state nor recognized as a form of marriage.
Equal Rights vs. Special Rights
A common Christian Right argument against protecting gays' basic civil rights is that gays are seeking 'specia' rights unavailable to others. This is untrue, but it's rhetorically powerful and sounds convincing. It's also hypocritical because if any group in America is benefiting from and defending special rights for themselves, it's religious believers. Why do Christians favor restrictions on gays which they would never accept for themselves?
A common Christian Right argument against protecting gays' basic civil rights is that gays are seeking 'specia' rights unavailable to others. This is untrue, but it's rhetorically powerful and sounds convincing. It's also hypocritical because if any group in America is benefiting from and defending special rights for themselves, it's religious believers. Why do Christians favor restrictions on gays which they would never accept for themselves?
What is Marriage? Gay Marriage Can’t Be a Real Marriage
Some argue that marriage is defined narrowly as only being between a man and a woman, so gays can't possibly marry. The fact is, though, that the nature of marriage has changed in definition and make-up many times over the centuries. Marriage today isn't at all like what it was two millennia or even two centuries ago. The changes in marriage have been broad and fundamental, so what are traditionalists really trying to defend? What is 'traditional' about modern marriage?
Some argue that marriage is defined narrowly as only being between a man and a woman, so gays can't possibly marry. The fact is, though, that the nature of marriage has changed in definition and make-up many times over the centuries. Marriage today isn't at all like what it was two millennia or even two centuries ago. The changes in marriage have been broad and fundamental, so what are traditionalists really trying to defend? What is 'traditional' about modern marriage?
Gays and Immigrants: Two Groups, One Discrimination
How many advocates for "justice" are really only advocates for "just us" - advocates for a "justice" that applies to just a single group and not to any others which might be experiencing similar discrimination or oppression? Too many.
How many advocates for "justice" are really only advocates for "just us" - advocates for a "justice" that applies to just a single group and not to any others which might be experiencing similar discrimination or oppression? Too many.
Housework is Gay
Christian conservatives who insist that men and women should be limited to entirely different occupations are quick to claim that this isn't supposed to mean that women are inferior. After all, women's occupations are just as good and important as men's, right?
Christian conservatives who insist that men and women should be limited to entirely different occupations are quick to claim that this isn't supposed to mean that women are inferior. After all, women's occupations are just as good and important as men's, right?
Why Do You Really Oppose Gay Marriage?
People who oppose gay marriage offer lots of different reasons for why they don't want it to become legal. A great many of those reasons are either religious or rely upon religious premises - but does that mean that the real reasons are genuinely religious? Could it instead be that there are other reasons and religion is just being used as an excuse?
People who oppose gay marriage offer lots of different reasons for why they don't want it to become legal. A great many of those reasons are either religious or rely upon religious premises - but does that mean that the real reasons are genuinely religious? Could it instead be that there are other reasons and religion is just being used as an excuse?
Mormons, Polygamy, and Same-Sex Marriage
Today the Mormon Church is one of the foremost opponents of same-sex marriage. What makes this interesting is that over century ago, the Mormons were in the middle of another national debate over the nature of marriage - but on the other side. At the time, they vigorously defended their own 'alternative' lifestyle. My, how things have changed.
Today the Mormon Church is one of the foremost opponents of same-sex marriage. What makes this interesting is that over century ago, the Mormons were in the middle of another national debate over the nature of marriage - but on the other side. At the time, they vigorously defended their own 'alternative' lifestyle. My, how things have changed.
Civil Rights, Civil Equality: Democracy Requires Full, Equal Humanity
Political equality requires human equality - when one group of citizens is treated as inferior on a basic human level, then it's impossible for them to be truly equal on a political level. Democracy, which is based upon political equality, thus cannot fully exist then citizens are denied full human equality. That's what happens when women, gays, or others are forced to hide or deny themselves.
Political equality requires human equality - when one group of citizens is treated as inferior on a basic human level, then it's impossible for them to be truly equal on a political level. Democracy, which is based upon political equality, thus cannot fully exist then citizens are denied full human equality. That's what happens when women, gays, or others are forced to hide or deny themselves.
Gay Clergy, Female Clergy, and Divorced Clergy
There was a lot of complaints about the confirmation of the election of a gay bishop in the Episcopal Church. Many of those who were upset were also upset when the Episcopalians decided to allow women to become members of the clergy. One interesting issue lost in all of this is the status of divorced clergy. Should a man be able to divorce and remarry but still be a bishop?
There was a lot of complaints about the confirmation of the election of a gay bishop in the Episcopal Church. Many of those who were upset were also upset when the Episcopalians decided to allow women to become members of the clergy. One interesting issue lost in all of this is the status of divorced clergy. Should a man be able to divorce and remarry but still be a bishop?
Coretta Scott King, Racism, and Homophobia
Do conservatives want a segregated society, where homosexuals are kept away from heterosexuals? There are certainly efforts to segregate material that doesn't unequivocally condemn homosexuality; efforts to keep gays in the closet have an effect very much like segregation. Activists in Boise, Idaho, recently put "Heterosexuals Only" stickers in public places to help make this point.
Do conservatives want a segregated society, where homosexuals are kept away from heterosexuals? There are certainly efforts to segregate material that doesn't unequivocally condemn homosexuality; efforts to keep gays in the closet have an effect very much like segregation. Activists in Boise, Idaho, recently put "Heterosexuals Only" stickers in public places to help make this point.
Some Conservatives Admit to Being Homophobes
A significant number of conservatives are homophobic and this is why they are so opposed to civil and legal equality for gays. Unfortunately, most of them are unwilling to admit it - most, but not none. There are a few who are unapologetic about their bigotry and discrimination.
A significant number of conservatives are homophobic and this is why they are so opposed to civil and legal equality for gays. Unfortunately, most of them are unwilling to admit it - most, but not none. There are a few who are unapologetic about their bigotry and discrimination.
Rick Duncan: Gay Rights Incompatible With Religious Liberty
Opposition to equal civil rights for gays comes in many forms. Religious conservatives are losing the argument that there is something necessarily wrong with homosexuality, so they appear to be turning to a new one: treating gays like fully equal citizens and human beings is incompatible with conservatives' religious liberty.
Opposition to equal civil rights for gays comes in many forms. Religious conservatives are losing the argument that there is something necessarily wrong with homosexuality, so they appear to be turning to a new one: treating gays like fully equal citizens and human beings is incompatible with conservatives' religious liberty.
Same Sex Marriage is a Civil Matter
Arguments against the legalization of same-sex marriage usually rely upon religion, religious premises, and religious beliefs. There is a problem with that: if the only arguments against allowing gays to marry are religious, then that is no argument at all.
Arguments against the legalization of same-sex marriage usually rely upon religion, religious premises, and religious beliefs. There is a problem with that: if the only arguments against allowing gays to marry are religious, then that is no argument at all.
Jeff Jacoby Opposes Equal Humanity & Citizenship of Gays?
Does Jeff Jacoby hate gay Americans? He doesn't come right out and say that he hates them, but his comments on gay adoption wouldn't be treated as anything other than bigotry and hatred if we were talking about Jewish or interracial couples trying to adopt. The Boston Globe should be ashamed for publishing such contemptible material.
Does Jeff Jacoby hate gay Americans? He doesn't come right out and say that he hates them, but his comments on gay adoption wouldn't be treated as anything other than bigotry and hatred if we were talking about Jewish or interracial couples trying to adopt. The Boston Globe should be ashamed for publishing such contemptible material.
Civil Equality vs. Religious Bigotry
Should the civil equality of all citizens, and especially members of minority groups, be limited by the bigotry and traditions of particular religious groups? On its face, that sounds like an absurd proposition, but it's precisely what many in the Christian Right seek to establish. They insist that their religious traditions and beliefs constitute limits on the liberties of everyone else.
Should the civil equality of all citizens, and especially members of minority groups, be limited by the bigotry and traditions of particular religious groups? On its face, that sounds like an absurd proposition, but it's precisely what many in the Christian Right seek to establish. They insist that their religious traditions and beliefs constitute limits on the liberties of everyone else.
Civil Marriage vs. Religious Marriage
Is marriage a civil right or a religious rite? This is the question which lies behind so many debates over issues like gay marriage. Some insist that marriage is a civil matter and should be regulated according to civil, secular standards. Others insist that marriage is a religious issue which should be regulated according to (their) religious standards. Who is right?
Is marriage a civil right or a religious rite? This is the question which lies behind so many debates over issues like gay marriage. Some insist that marriage is a civil matter and should be regulated according to civil, secular standards. Others insist that marriage is a religious issue which should be regulated according to (their) religious standards. Who is right?
Gay Adoptions, Immigration, and American Catholics
On the east coast, Catholic Charities is discontinuing adoption services in Boston rather than continue to place kids with gay families. Conservatives are happy about this. On the west coast, Catholic leaders are gearing up to disobey government immigration laws, but conservatives aren't quite so pleased about this. Why the difference?
On the east coast, Catholic Charities is discontinuing adoption services in Boston rather than continue to place kids with gay families. Conservatives are happy about this. On the west coast, Catholic leaders are gearing up to disobey government immigration laws, but conservatives aren't quite so pleased about this. Why the difference?
Interracial Marriage: Equal Rights vs. Special Rights
When interracial couples fought for the right to marry each other, were they asking for equal rights or special rights? They claimed that they wanted the same rights as same-race couples, but conservative defenders of tradition insisted that they wanted special rights. After all, no one was allowed to marry members of another race, so all were treated equally.
When interracial couples fought for the right to marry each other, were they asking for equal rights or special rights? They claimed that they wanted the same rights as same-race couples, but conservative defenders of tradition insisted that they wanted special rights. After all, no one was allowed to marry members of another race, so all were treated equally.
Gay Marriage vs. Miscegenation
A lot of people oppose the legalization of gay marriages - for them, this poses a serious threat to the institution of marriage itself. Now, it is entirely possible that their concerns are justified - but what is disturbing, and what should be disturbing for them as well, is just how similar their arguments are to the ones which were used to oppose interracial marriages...
A lot of people oppose the legalization of gay marriages - for them, this poses a serious threat to the institution of marriage itself. Now, it is entirely possible that their concerns are justified - but what is disturbing, and what should be disturbing for them as well, is just how similar their arguments are to the ones which were used to oppose interracial marriages...
Gay Marriage & Church/State Separation
There is a great deal of work being done by religious conservatives to try and ensure that gay marriage never becomes legal in the United States. If they are able to pass a constitutional amendment that defines marriage narrowly enough, they might succeed - but in so doing they will permanently alter the very character of the Constitution itself. Why?
There is a great deal of work being done by religious conservatives to try and ensure that gay marriage never becomes legal in the United States. If they are able to pass a constitutional amendment that defines marriage narrowly enough, they might succeed - but in so doing they will permanently alter the very character of the Constitution itself. Why?
So-Called 'Balance' when Debating Homosexuality
When was the last time you saw a discussion in the media over some issue of gay rights where both sides accepted the full humanity and equality of gays, but simply differed on the details of specific policies? When was the last time one of those invited to speak on the issue didn't believe, and probably said outright, that their position was that gays are an abomination?
When was the last time you saw a discussion in the media over some issue of gay rights where both sides accepted the full humanity and equality of gays, but simply differed on the details of specific policies? When was the last time one of those invited to speak on the issue didn't believe, and probably said outright, that their position was that gays are an abomination?
Unpacking the Anti-Gay Marriage Agenda
Is it possible to offer a serious, considered argument against gay marriage? Yes. Unfortunately, almost no one who argues against gay marriage does so - just about all such people are anti-gay bigots who don't appear interested or capable of constructing serious, fair, and honest arguments.
Is it possible to offer a serious, considered argument against gay marriage? Yes. Unfortunately, almost no one who argues against gay marriage does so - just about all such people are anti-gay bigots who don't appear interested or capable of constructing serious, fair, and honest arguments.
Homosexuality in Public and Private
It's common for anti-gay bigots to complain that it's inappropriate for homosexuals to 'display' their homosexuality all the time. They imagine that such displays are done deliberately as a political or social statement, and at times this may be true. What they forgot or simply ignore, however, is how often heterosexuality is on display.
It's common for anti-gay bigots to complain that it's inappropriate for homosexuals to 'display' their homosexuality all the time. They imagine that such displays are done deliberately as a political or social statement, and at times this may be true. What they forgot or simply ignore, however, is how often heterosexuality is on display.
Religious Marriage vs. Civil Marriage
All marriages in America are civil marriages because all marriages require a civil license. Some people have a religious ceremony, but the ceremony has no legal standing. All that's required are the signatures of the couple, witnesses, and the person authorized to perform the ceremony - I know, because I've performed marriages myself. But how many people opt for a religious ceremony?
All marriages in America are civil marriages because all marriages require a civil license. Some people have a religious ceremony, but the ceremony has no legal standing. All that's required are the signatures of the couple, witnesses, and the person authorized to perform the ceremony - I know, because I've performed marriages myself. But how many people opt for a religious ceremony?
Law and Morality: Changing Attitudes Towards Homosexuality
The most common objection to laws guaranteeing equality and equal rights for gays is simple bigotry: people find homosexuality to be morally objectionable, so they don't want homosexuals to be treated equally. This bigotry used to be much stronger than it is today; as attitudes towards gays have changed, so have the types of demands which gays and their supporters have made.
The most common objection to laws guaranteeing equality and equal rights for gays is simple bigotry: people find homosexuality to be morally objectionable, so they don't want homosexuals to be treated equally. This bigotry used to be much stronger than it is today; as attitudes towards gays have changed, so have the types of demands which gays and their supporters have made.
Same-Sex Marriage, Religion, and Ideology
Marriage in America is fundamentally a civil affair - marriages are defined and regulated by the states, not by individual churches and religious denominations. Given the religious diversity of America, there's no other reasonable option. So why do religious groups object to expanding civil marriage to gay couples? Because they simply don't realize, understand, or accept that marriage is civil.
Marriage in America is fundamentally a civil affair - marriages are defined and regulated by the states, not by individual churches and religious denominations. Given the religious diversity of America, there's no other reasonable option. So why do religious groups object to expanding civil marriage to gay couples? Because they simply don't realize, understand, or accept that marriage is civil.
Moral Panic Over Gays: Defending Traditional Marriage
Sometimes, the issue isn't the issue - what this means is that the 'issue' being debated is, at least in some ways, a mask or a symbol for more fundamental issues. If we don't realize this, then we will fail to understand why apparently absurd arguments are being made: they are only 'absurd' if they are taken as being about the surface issue; when we look at the underlying issues, it makes sense.
Sometimes, the issue isn't the issue - what this means is that the 'issue' being debated is, at least in some ways, a mask or a symbol for more fundamental issues. If we don't realize this, then we will fail to understand why apparently absurd arguments are being made: they are only 'absurd' if they are taken as being about the surface issue; when we look at the underlying issues, it makes sense.
Homosexual Recruitment vs. Heterosexual Recruitment
The Christian Right regularly accuses gays of trying to 'recruit' young people into the homosexual lifestyle. For such Christians, it's inconceivable that people would be gay simply because it's what's most natural for them - being gay must be something like a movement which one is converted to by current members. The truth, however, is that Christian Right are the ones doing the recruiting.
The Christian Right regularly accuses gays of trying to 'recruit' young people into the homosexual lifestyle. For such Christians, it's inconceivable that people would be gay simply because it's what's most natural for them - being gay must be something like a movement which one is converted to by current members. The truth, however, is that Christian Right are the ones doing the recruiting.
Nazi Germany and the Right-Wing War on Homosexuality, Sexual Deviance
One of the things which the Nazis used to appeal to Christian voters in Weimar Germany was their strong opposition to all forms of sexual deviance: prostitution, pornography, sex without procreation, too much liberty for women, and of course homosexuality. The Nazis argued that all this created impurity within Germany and imperiled Germany's future.
One of the things which the Nazis used to appeal to Christian voters in Weimar Germany was their strong opposition to all forms of sexual deviance: prostitution, pornography, sex without procreation, too much liberty for women, and of course homosexuality. The Nazis argued that all this created impurity within Germany and imperiled Germany's future.
Homosexuality: A Public or Private Issue?
"Homosexuality is a public issue, because the heterosexual majority has elected to single it out as a characteristic for which an individual may be denied basic civil and human rights."
"Homosexuality is a public issue, because the heterosexual majority has elected to single it out as a characteristic for which an individual may be denied basic civil and human rights."
Gender and Identity: Just Male and Female? (Book Notes: With Pleasure)
In the debate over gay marriage, a common refrain hear from religious conservatives is that marriage is only between "one man and one woman." Gender, it is assumed, comes it precisely two forms: no more, no less. What they don't realize is that culture plays as much of a role in this as does biology.
In the debate over gay marriage, a common refrain hear from religious conservatives is that marriage is only between "one man and one woman." Gender, it is assumed, comes it precisely two forms: no more, no less. What they don't realize is that culture plays as much of a role in this as does biology.
Can Gay Rights and Gay Marriage Be Stopped? (Book Notes: Gay Marriage)
What do conservative religious critics hope to accomplish in their opposition to gay rights and gay marriage? William F. Buckley has described the basic principle of conservatism as "To stand athwart history yelling 'Stop!'" Do they, though, really expect to succeed in this when it comes to homosexuality?
What do conservative religious critics hope to accomplish in their opposition to gay rights and gay marriage? William F. Buckley has described the basic principle of conservatism as "To stand athwart history yelling 'Stop!'" Do they, though, really expect to succeed in this when it comes to homosexuality?
Gay Rights and Special Rights (Book Notes: Created Equal)
Frequently... when gays talk about gay rights, heterosexuals hear talk about sex, not personal freedom. The claim that gays want "special rights" reflects the degree to which lesbians and gay men are seen as so out of the ordinary that their claims to ordinary rights seem special.
Frequently... when gays talk about gay rights, heterosexuals hear talk about sex, not personal freedom. The claim that gays want "special rights" reflects the degree to which lesbians and gay men are seen as so out of the ordinary that their claims to ordinary rights seem special.
The Inferiority of Gay Americans (Book Notes: Perfect Enemies)
Members of the Christian Right sometimes like to say that their policy is to "hate the sin but love the sinner" and, therefore, while they hate homosexuality, they don't hate homosexuals. Their actions and statements, though, betray their true feelings: they believe that gays are inferior citizens and inferior human beings.
Members of the Christian Right sometimes like to say that their policy is to "hate the sin but love the sinner" and, therefore, while they hate homosexuality, they don't hate homosexuals. Their actions and statements, though, betray their true feelings: they believe that gays are inferior citizens and inferior human beings.
The Changing Institution of Marriage (Book Notes: Gay Marriage)
Opponents of gay marriage try to portray themselves as "defenders" of "traditional" marriage and act as through extending the right to gays to marry each other would alter an institution that has endured unchanged for millennia. Reality is very different, though.
Opponents of gay marriage try to portray themselves as "defenders" of "traditional" marriage and act as through extending the right to gays to marry each other would alter an institution that has endured unchanged for millennia. Reality is very different, though.
Hate the Sin, Hate the Sinner (Book Notes: Civil Wars)
It's common for Christians to claim that they "hate the sin, but lover the sinner." Do their actions match their rhetoric, though? That's a difficult proposition to defend. It's surely true with some, but the most vocal and active members of the Christian Right don't really act like they believe what they are saying.
It's common for Christians to claim that they "hate the sin, but lover the sinner." Do their actions match their rhetoric, though? That's a difficult proposition to defend. It's surely true with some, but the most vocal and active members of the Christian Right don't really act like they believe what they are saying.
Revulsion of Homosexuality (Book Notes: Created Equal)
The oppression and persecution of homosexuals in America is becoming more and more important politically. Back when discrimination against gays was the norm, there were no questions about why it occurred. Now that it is being challenged, though, the roots of this hatred are being exposed.
The oppression and persecution of homosexuals in America is becoming more and more important politically. Back when discrimination against gays was the norm, there were no questions about why it occurred. Now that it is being challenged, though, the roots of this hatred are being exposed.
Gays as Invisible, Second-Class Citizens (Book Notes: Perfect Enemies)
Homosexuals have come a long way in America - from being afraid to reveal their sexuality to anyone a few decades ago to agitating for gay marriage today. This progress has been accompanied by a backlash, though, because gay Americans want more civil rights than many straights are willing to honor.
Homosexuals have come a long way in America - from being afraid to reveal their sexuality to anyone a few decades ago to agitating for gay marriage today. This progress has been accompanied by a backlash, though, because gay Americans want more civil rights than many straights are willing to honor.
Divorce as a Sin and a Crime: Christianity, Marriage, and the State
The arguments being used by the Christian Right today against gay marriage are not unique or sui generis. These arguments are an integral part of how the Christian Right views the world and they have used the exact same arguments in the past - for example, when they were opposing the liberalization of divorce laws.
The arguments being used by the Christian Right today against gay marriage are not unique or sui generis. These arguments are an integral part of how the Christian Right views the world and they have used the exact same arguments in the past - for example, when they were opposing the liberalization of divorce laws.
Fear of Freedom - Others' Freedom (Book Notes: Created Equal)
"Freedom is the scariest of human desires. The American commitment to the freedom and equality of the autonomous individual has always frightened as many Americans as it exhilarated. ... To some groups, the apparent lack of moral order engendered by the elevation of individual rights gave rise to a persistent fear of conspiracy..."
"Freedom is the scariest of human desires. The American commitment to the freedom and equality of the autonomous individual has always frightened as many Americans as it exhilarated. ... To some groups, the apparent lack of moral order engendered by the elevation of individual rights gave rise to a persistent fear of conspiracy..."
Discrimination as the Christian Right's Goal
The Christian Right often likes to portray itself as standing up for religious liberty on the one hand and traditional religious values on the other. The means by which they expect to advance these, things, though, is through the elimination of full civil equality of those groups which are regarded as morally and spiritually inferior.
The Christian Right often likes to portray itself as standing up for religious liberty on the one hand and traditional religious values on the other. The means by which they expect to advance these, things, though, is through the elimination of full civil equality of those groups which are regarded as morally and spiritually inferior.
Bigotry and Opposition to Same-Sex Marriage
Many of those who oppose the legalization of gay marriage object to being called bigots or homophobes. They insist that their position is based on reason or religion, not hatred. Perhaps it is possible to oppose gay marriage without being bigoted, but would we give an opponent of interracial marriage the same benefit of the doubt? Unlikely - and for good reasons.
Many of those who oppose the legalization of gay marriage object to being called bigots or homophobes. They insist that their position is based on reason or religion, not hatred. Perhaps it is possible to oppose gay marriage without being bigoted, but would we give an opponent of interracial marriage the same benefit of the doubt? Unlikely - and for good reasons.
Using Stereotypes to Divide and Repress
The arguments against legalizing gay marriage are rather poor, both from logical and legal perspectives. The organizing ideology behind the opposition is primarily religious, but the widespread acceptance of this opposition appears to involve people's unease with gay people generally and gay marriage itself.
The arguments against legalizing gay marriage are rather poor, both from logical and legal perspectives. The organizing ideology behind the opposition is primarily religious, but the widespread acceptance of this opposition appears to involve people's unease with gay people generally and gay marriage itself.
Marriage: Religious Rite or Civil Right?
Many people argue that marriage is essentially and necessarily a religious rite - they conceive of religion in almost exclusively religious terms and object to the intrusion of the state into a religious matter. Because of religion's traditional role in sanctifying marriages and presiding over wedding ceremonies this is understandable, but it's also incorrect.
Many people argue that marriage is essentially and necessarily a religious rite - they conceive of religion in almost exclusively religious terms and object to the intrusion of the state into a religious matter. Because of religion's traditional role in sanctifying marriages and presiding over wedding ceremonies this is understandable, but it's also incorrect.
What's The Point of Marriage, Gay or Straight?
A common question in the debate over gay marriage is: what the point is for gays to marry? Aside from property and legal issues that could, in theory, be solved by other laws, what point are gays trying to make in attempting to get married? Why is it so important to be able to hold up a marriage certificate and say ‘we're married‘ instead of simply saying ‘we're a couple‘ without a certificate?
A common question in the debate over gay marriage is: what the point is for gays to marry? Aside from property and legal issues that could, in theory, be solved by other laws, what point are gays trying to make in attempting to get married? Why is it so important to be able to hold up a marriage certificate and say ‘we're married‘ instead of simply saying ‘we're a couple‘ without a certificate?
What is a Marriage Between a Man and a Woman?
Those who argue against gay marriage insist that the only legitimate marriages are those between men and women. But what about people who are, well, not quite either male or female - at least not according to all the definitions usually employed? Defining marriage in terms of sex begs the question of how we define the sexes - how we define who is a "man" and who is a "woman."
Those who argue against gay marriage insist that the only legitimate marriages are those between men and women. But what about people who are, well, not quite either male or female - at least not according to all the definitions usually employed? Defining marriage in terms of sex begs the question of how we define the sexes - how we define who is a "man" and who is a "woman."
Marriage is for Raising Children?
The premise that gay couples don't merit treatment as married couples because of the disconnect between homosexuality and procreation cuts across many arguments against same-sex marriage. Is that true, and if so, does it matter?
The premise that gay couples don't merit treatment as married couples because of the disconnect between homosexuality and procreation cuts across many arguments against same-sex marriage. Is that true, and if so, does it matter?
Gay Marriage Will Undermine the Institution of Marriage: Therefore, Gays Shouldn’t Marry?
A common argument against legalizing same-sex marriages is that doing so would undermine the institution of marriage. For some reason, a marriage between members of the same sex is a self-contradiction and, if their unions are legalized, then marriage itself across the country will be harmed. But upon what basis is such an argument made?
A common argument against legalizing same-sex marriages is that doing so would undermine the institution of marriage. For some reason, a marriage between members of the same sex is a self-contradiction and, if their unions are legalized, then marriage itself across the country will be harmed. But upon what basis is such an argument made?
Gay Couples are Unnatural & Unnatural Unions Cannot Be Marriage
This is a premise which influences other arguments and which lies behind many people's negative opinions about homosexuality in general. Homosexual relationships are regarded as abnormal and unnatural. Perhaps they should be tolerated as a matter of social fairness, but they certainly shouldn't be validated by the state and recognized as a form of marriage.
This is a premise which influences other arguments and which lies behind many people's negative opinions about homosexuality in general. Homosexual relationships are regarded as abnormal and unnatural. Perhaps they should be tolerated as a matter of social fairness, but they certainly shouldn't be validated by the state and recognized as a form of marriage.
Marriage is Sacred and a Sacrament
This is rarely argued explicitly, but it is perhaps one of the most important arguments for opponents. The idea that marriage is sacred and/or a sacrament underlies much of the vehemence that motivates them in a way that the other arguments fail to explain. Indeed, if it weren't for the idea that marriage is sacred, it seems unlikely that the debate would be as huge and rancorous as it is.
This is rarely argued explicitly, but it is perhaps one of the most important arguments for opponents. The idea that marriage is sacred and/or a sacrament underlies much of the vehemence that motivates them in a way that the other arguments fail to explain. Indeed, if it weren't for the idea that marriage is sacred, it seems unlikely that the debate would be as huge and rancorous as it is.
Gay Rights and Gay Marriage Timeline
Chronological, color-coded listing of events important in the history of gay rights and gay marriage, with a focus on recent American history.
Chronological, color-coded listing of events important in the history of gay rights and gay marriage, with a focus on recent American history.
Evangelical Christianity & Homosexuality
Evangelical and conservative Christians can be counted upon to exhibit outrage and dismay over just about any attempts to treat gays like equal citizens. I'm not talking about gay marriage. I'm talking about something much more basic: whether or not gays should be protected from discrimination when it comes to things like hiring, firing, housing, and financial transactions.
Evangelical and conservative Christians can be counted upon to exhibit outrage and dismay over just about any attempts to treat gays like equal citizens. I'm not talking about gay marriage. I'm talking about something much more basic: whether or not gays should be protected from discrimination when it comes to things like hiring, firing, housing, and financial transactions.
AFA & Homosexuality
Don Wildmon's American Family Association has been increasingly on the forefront of the Radical Religious Right and the efforts to impose a very conservative, evangelical Christian morality on America. A high-priority target of Wildmon and the AFA are homosexuals and their efforts to obtain a certain degree of respect, tolerance, and rights in our society.
Don Wildmon's American Family Association has been increasingly on the forefront of the Radical Religious Right and the efforts to impose a very conservative, evangelical Christian morality on America. A high-priority target of Wildmon and the AFA are homosexuals and their efforts to obtain a certain degree of respect, tolerance, and rights in our society.
Marriage Rights for Gays and Lesbians
"One day I hope to have a family. Yes, in the traditional sense of the word- kids, a dog, a big house with a yard and a legally recognized marriage." Read more about what Ramon Johnson, About's Gay Life Guide, has to say on the issue of same-sex marriages.
"One day I hope to have a family. Yes, in the traditional sense of the word- kids, a dog, a big house with a yard and a legally recognized marriage." Read more about what Ramon Johnson, About's Gay Life Guide, has to say on the issue of same-sex marriages.
Lesbian and Gay Marriage: Both sides of the Issue
Kathy Belge, About's Lesbian Life Guide writes: "If two people love each other, shouldn't they be allowed the same rights, privileges and responsibilities, no matter their genders? Yet, for heterosexuals, divorce rates are at an all time high. Infidelity in marriage is an epidemic." Read more as she explains the case for and against gay same-sex marriages.
Kathy Belge, About's Lesbian Life Guide writes: "If two people love each other, shouldn't they be allowed the same rights, privileges and responsibilities, no matter their genders? Yet, for heterosexuals, divorce rates are at an all time high. Infidelity in marriage is an epidemic." Read more as she explains the case for and against gay same-sex marriages.