Differences Between Homosexual And Heterosexual Marriages Society example essay topic

In today's society there are many factors that contribute to the ever-continuing social inequality of people through out Canada. It is no wonder as to why there are so many stereotypes of what is socially 'acceptable' and what isn't when the media is forcing these 'norms' into our minds. What is 'ideal' with in today's expectations isn't always attainable due the fact that everyone is different. One of the most controversial topics being discussed today is view on same sex marriage. This notorious topic is nothing new, however, there is an ongoing debate as to whether or not make it legal for couples of the same sex to engage in a marital status.

Although the bond between two homosexuals is 'different' from two heterosexuals, the idea is the same: a union between two people. This is just one of the ways in which society is continuously participating in the failure to establish equality. Gay and lesbian activist are hoping for legalized same-sex marriages so that both of the partners can receive federal benefits as those of heterosexuals with in their marriage. As of right now, homosexual couples do no receive social security.

According to Hector Vargas "Separate is not equal and same-sex couples deserve the same as heterosexual couples". Many people fear that if same sex couples are granted the same rights to unite under the term "marriage" there will be nothing distinguishing the difference between the two marriages and for many, there is a huge difference. A third year student name Katie Holcombe feels as thought same sex marriages are an "abomination in the eyes of God. He created Adam and Eve - a man and a woman". In an article written by Colin Megill he compares black people to homosexuals and their place in society as a minority. He uses an example of when black children were allowed in the white public schools, it would diminish the education system.

Correspondingly, those who are against gay marriages fear if homosexuals are allowed to unite under the phrase "marriage" the institution value will weaken. There are apparent differences between respecting the rights of homosexuals and protecting the term "marriage". Colin Megill believes that in a perfect world, marriage would simply be a word and civil unions would be separate but equal. He acknowledges the fact that as a society we have tried the 'separate but equal' movement and obviously have not learned from those mistakes. The example he uses to prove this point is the separation between blacks and whites. Marriage is a symbol of two people being joined together.

If society creates a new category for the term, society will be 'dehumanizing' these people and promoting unequal ness. Megill believes we are serving the same purposes as were fought against in the civil rights movement. In Max Weber's theory an "ideal" type provides the basic method for comparative studies. This "idea" type is not meant to refer to the 'best' but rather to the 'accepted' features of social behaviours.

The "ideal" type never matches up to reality but is a portrayal to which society can compare. In a perfect world as reviewed before, marriage would just be a word. However, since same sex marriages are a fairly new topic of debate, a majority of society does not want to "expand their minds" to a new concept of unity. Not everyone falls under an "ideal" type in society and since there is ranges of differences this is what makes a "norm" difficult to determine.

In the reading of Max Weber's Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism it is not difficult to realize that religion sometimes has an important influence on individuals and cultures. Christian groups historically have criticized homosexuality. Since Christianity is quite a dominant religion, it isn't a surprise that a major source of opposition to same-sex marriage has been with in Christian groups. They are taught to believe in their readings and scriptures that homosexual marriages are immoral and unnatural. Religion sees marriage as the joining of two people. Megill believes that recognition and legitimization by the state is unnecessary for a true believer and only exists for social reasons.

His argument goes on to say that if same sex marriages do not receive religious legitimacy only social legitimacy, then who is same sex marriages 'hurting?' Megill believes that it only threatens people that are insecure about their religious beliefs and those that are uncomfortable with their own sexuality. For, if everyone were secure with himself or herself, why would it matter what others do in our society? To notice the differences between homosexual and heterosexual marriages society is encouraging separation with in a society, country and nation. Homosexuals cannot choose who they want to be any more than heterosexuals can.

It is unfortunate that because they are a minority with in society they are faced with struggles in which they do not have any control over. The longer society 'ignores' the issue that not everyone fits under an 'ideal' type with in society, the more it only confirms the close mindedness we have as a nation. Megill believes that as long as people are carrying signs that saying "Gay marriage is not in God's plan". Then as a society we are saying that inequality is.