Recognizing Same Sex Marriages

Paper Summary:

In this essay, the writer argues that the union of homosexual couples may be recognized in the political arena, but it should not be conflated with traditional marriage. The writer continues that the heterosexual union of man and woman is not a political institution but one that arises from the natural order. The writer maintains that the homosexual union, on the other hand, finds recognition through ideology, specifically the democratic ideal. Traditional marriage, it is argued, remains beyond any political argument. Evidence is produced from key court cases.

From the Paper:

"The difference between man and women has yet to be codified in any civil law or institution. So when the object of civil law becomes the establishment of democracy or equality, then it is natural that, at some stage or other this difference will become an obstacle. The modern times have witnessed an immense drive towards the establishment of the rights of women, and the object here is to bring woman into a parity with man, as far as civil rights and liberties are concerned. The movement towards giving social recognition to homosexual relationships, which entails removing the stigma associated with such relationships in the past, can be seen as part of the same drive that proffers civil rights to women. It is all part and parcel of being on the royal road towards democracy and equality. In the end society finds itself on the devil's horn of whether or not to recognize same sex marriage as being equivalent to normal and heterosexual unions."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Morse J. (May 2005). Marriage and the Limits of Contract. Retrieved August 11, 2008, from Hoover Institution. Website: http://www.hoover.org/publications/policyreview/2939396.html
• Turnbull L, Martin J. (2006, July 26). State Supreme Court upholds gay marriage ban. Retrieved August 11, 2008, from The Seattle Times. Website: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2003152467_webdoma26.html
• Warner M. (1999). The Trouble with Normal: Sex, Politics, and the Ethics of Queer Life. Glencoe, IL: Free Press.

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