One of the hot topics facing politicians and society as a whole is the issue of Gay Marriage. Many people would like to see gay marriage banned. Various arguments opposing the union of same-sex couples are based upon moral, religious and legal beliefs. Fortunately, there are also many people who support gay marriage. Let's take a look at some of these arguments and see if we can't put things in perspective.
Is marriage between two people of the same sex a threat to the family unit? I believe this is a myth perpetuated by people who would like to inflict their personal biases on society. Denying marriage to gays is not going to stop gay couples from being together, which is no more of a threat. Legalizing gay marriage is not going to turn heterosexuals into homosexuals. Sexual orientation is decided long before the legal age of marriage. A recent study at the University of Chicago shows that sexual orientation is linked to brain metabolism (Harms). The public as a whole may not be ready for gay marriage, but that is not sufficient reason to deny gay people the same rights and benefits currently available to heterosexual couples. It was not that long ago that marriage between different races was banned.
Many times religion is used to combat gay marriage. The Catholic church, among others, takes a very public stance in opposition. However, legalization of gay marriage is a legal and secular issue, not a religious issue. There are many different religions in our country, some supporting gay marriage and some opposed. Religions are not going to be required to perform gay marriages when they become legal. The only adverse affect on a religion might be the loss of members. This could occur if gay members switch to a more tolerant religion to obtain a "legal" and "religious" union.
Many of the verses in the English translation of the Bible "condemning" homosexuality are ambiguous at best (Helminiak). If the original...