Gay and Lesbian Marriage in America :: Same-Sex Marriage

Marriage, as some(prenominal) a level-headed inception and as a social tradition, has always been at the heart of the twist blocks of American society. Throughout U.S. history, it has generally been understood, both legally and socially, as a monogamous compact between two persons of opposite sexes. However, as the jovial and lesbian liberation movement gains increasing exposure and influence, the topic of same-sex married couple has been brought to discussion. In the following pages, the legitimacy of same-sex unifications/partnership will be discussed, as well as the best means to achieve such an end. For the determination here, the diction marriage and union ar used interchangeably, although one powerfulness argue that to all but the most(prenominal) zealous, the idea of a same-sex union is more acceptable than gay marriage because it does not as nowadays confront the traditional definition of marriage. Socially, the institution of marriage offers both dignity and val idation to the two parties involved as a compress of their mutual commitment to each other. This papers predominant focus is on the legal aspect of marriage, along with the legal benefits and responsibilities that are associated with ones marital status (though excluding for the most part the child custody/adoption issue, which is another battle in itself as it involves both a third party and minors). Proven variation in these areas can and should be addressed by changes in earthly concern policy. Cultural intolerance and private discrimination, on the other hand, cannot.There are several arguments against legalization of same-sex marriages, specifically 1. That homosexual behavior is fundamentally abominable or blasphemous because it does not lead to procreation and/or is condemned by religious texts. 2. That same-sex parenting is necessarily detrimental to child development. 3. That same-sex marriage will go on undermine the already crumbling traditional heterosexual marriage as an institution. alone of these arguments, however, can be unequivocally refuted.It is obvious that the strongest opposition against gay marriage legalization comes from the Christian Coalition, which supposedly represents the silent Moral Majority. As the name indicates, at the heart of such a groups rhetoric is the holy Bible, although their position is not far away from those of the more orthodox Muslims and Judaic religious organizations. However, crucial distinctions must be drawn between the concepts of religion, morality, and righteousness what is compatible with religion is not necessarily so with morality, and what is legal is not necessarily moral. Adultery is listed as equally a sin as homosexuality in the Bible (both punishable by death), yet it is not a legal offense.