Same-Sex Marriage and Religious Liberties Essay - 1558 Words

In the United States, legalization of same-sex marriage has a long-standing history of opposition from religious circles. Some argue against the legalization of same-sex marriage based on their interpretation of the Bible’s stance against homosexuality (Dobson, O’Brien). Other opponents argue against the practice based on universal tenets of moral behavior, fundamental beliefs that are said to underpin our country’s existing laws and should not be eroded (George, Finnis, Friedman). Increasingly, however, the arguments against same-sex marriage have turned to the legal realm, asserting that the practice threatens the right to religious freedom. Objectors use the U.S. Constitution and governing laws to craft legal arguments, rather than†¦show more content†¦For example, forcing organizations such as religious adoptive services to place children in the care of a civilly-married, same-sex couple is viewed as contradicting the core values of that organization. The same changes are seen as affecting individuals such as religious marriage counselors, who would potentially risk legal penalties for denying service to same-sex couples. Furthermore, opponents warn that legalization of same-sex marriage and changes to the civil definition of marriage would cause an avalanche of changes in other areas. Laws regarding employment, education, healthcare, and housing would be altered to accommodate same-sex couples. Such sweeping changes are viewed by advocates of religious freedom as further risking religious liberties of organizations and individuals relating to a range of businesses and industries. In essence, the legalization of same-sex marriage is seen as compulsory sanctioning of a lifestyle that goes against the fundamental beliefs of certain groups and individuals and, moreover, requires them by force of law to act contrary to their religious tenets. This scenario is viewed as a direct assault on religious liberties. Advocates for same-sex marriage base their argument in the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. They contend that same-sex couples are denied the basic right of marriage. TheirShow MoreRelatedSynthesis Paper on Gay Marriage1240 Words   |  5 Pagesarticle, â€Å"Gay marriage proposals destructive to society, Vatican official says,† is an argument against gay marriage. The author, John Thavis, claims that homosexuals are just struggling to find themselves and that same-sex marriage disrupts the normal sexuality and fertility of a couple. In â€Å"Support for Homosexuals’ Civil Liberties†, Kristin Kenneavy discusses how religious outlooks influence a family’s beliefs on same sex marriage. The two articles show the different views on gay marriage by explainingRead MoreCivil Rights And Civil Liberties1157 Words   |  5 Pagescivil liberties Every citizen of the country is bounded and benefited with the freedom of Civil rights and Civil liberty. 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