Please select the category that most closely reflects your concern about this content,
so that we can review it and determine whether it violates Civility 101 or isn't
appropriate for some other reason.
Abusing this feature is also a violation of Civility 101.
Explanation:
The tide of marriage for same-sex couples has ebbed and flowed over the last decade with no end in sight. Because marriage sits squarely at the intersection of religion, law and society, the discussion around same-sex couples’ inclusion into the institution of marriage has been one of the most complex and hotly contested topics in America.
Biweekly updates on new debates and experts
Please check your email to confirm your subscription.
© 2008-2010 Opposing Views, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Opposing Views, Inc. is not responsible for the content posted on this website. Please view full disclaimer under Terms
Civil and Religious Marriage are Different
Don't we have separation of Church and State in this country??
It seems to me that this argument should be separated into two issues: 1) Is marriage an issue of government or church?
2) If it is an issue of religion, then what business does the state have regulating who can participate in it? If it is an issue of the state, then we must leave religious belief out of it entirely.
Many countries have two ceremonies, one civil and one religious. We should do the same. We should have civil unions for couples gay or straight, which will give them ALL the legal rights of married couples. And then if you want to be "married" in the eyes of God, go find a church to perform the ceremony. It is unfair to deny the rights of joint income tax to couples who live together. It's unfair to deny them spousal rights in purchasing real estate, in estate planning...etc.
I have to admit that my feelings about these things have been shaped recently by my association with several gay couples whom I respect.
- mh78639
October 13, 2008 5:10PM
Reply to this Recommend
(0)
Side: Uncommitted
Thank You for your Comment
We review all comments before they're posted. For more on our comment policy, please see our FAQ.