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Introduction The end of the XX century and the beginning of the XXI one were truly a breakthrough. The rights of a number of people previously considered social outcasts were finally acknowledged, and the U.S. seemed to have proven its right to be called the land of democracy once again.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Same-Sex Marriage in the United States of America specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More However, over the past few years, the issue regarding same-sex marriage has appeared several times. Gaining their indefeasible rights and freedoms, gay people want to live their normal lives and create families. However, in most cases, the law turns into a stumbling block for gay marriages. A Brief history of the LGBT community in the USA Given the controversy of the subject, it is easy to understand why allowing homosexuals to marry has raised so many discussions and protests. Even in the USA, the place con sidered the epitome of democracy, marriages between homosexual people have been allowed only in thirteen states so far – according to the 2013 records. Only New York, Rhode Island, California, Iowa, Minnesota, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Delaware, Connecticut, Washington, Vermont, Maine and Maryland legally support marriage between gays and lesbians. Despite the fact that the movement supporting the rights of gay people started in the distant 1970s, six states still disapprove of gay marriage and keep it officially banned (). Current issues and the attitudes towards same-sex marriage As it has been stated above, only thirteen states of America approve of same-ex marriage legally. However, there is often a big gap between what has been approved of officially and what people think is right. Therefore, it will be a good idea to take a closer look at the attitudes towards the idea of legalizing same-sex marriage as an average American citizen sees it. Of course, the statistical data as an ultimate proof for either banning or allowing gay marriage provided above should be taken with a grain of salt, since this information incorporates people’s personal vision of the situation and, therefore, contains the furthest extremes. However, this statistical data still shows whether the nation is ready for such a great change as the approval of gay marriages. At present, it seems that people have adopted a more tolerant attitude towards the idea of gay people marrying. Moreover, the very concept of gay culture seems to be accepted more widely. Of course, it would be wrong to deny that narrow-minded people exist; however, more and more people have started to realize that sexual orientation is only another dimension to one’s personality and that there is nothing wrong about being homosexual.Advertising Looking for research paper on social sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Reasons for the to pic choice and the personal relation The choice of the given topic was predetermined by a number of reasons, yet the personal ones seem to be major for me. There is no secret that the process of realizing one’s own sexuality is very complex and requires considerable time. In my high school years, I was only exploring my own self and, therefore, my own sexuality, which was, probably, why I decided that I was a lesbian. I would not say that I was shunned somehow or looked down at; however, the people around me were constantly trying to prove me that I was too young and too inexperienced to decide on my own sexual orientation, which was strange enough. Therefore, I feel that I have a strong connection to the given topic and, therefore, must research it. The significance of the issue As it has been stated above, increasingly more people are starting to consider homosexual marriages as the phenomenon that has the right to exist. Therefore, the question about the topicality and the significance of the issue might be raised. Seeing how the gay culture is starting to be accepted snot only statewide, but also nationwide, one might think that there are no more issues to be concerned about. The aforementioned attitude, however, is wrong. Gay marriages are still banned in most of the United States, and, therefore, the rights of homosexual people remain infringed (Williams, 2011). Moreover, a number of people still fear and, thus, tend to ostracize homosexual people, protesting against giving them the same rights as the rest of the U.S. people have, not to mention the right to marry and bring up children. It can be assumed that with the statewide adoption of the law that will allow gay people to marry, a number of things are going to be changed, starting from the attitude towards gay people. At present, the latter are alienated from the rest of the population. Though, partially, the gay people have also something to do with the given situation, being unwilling to ta lk about their orientation or to insist on equal rights, it still must be admitted that it is mostly the ignorance of an average U.S. citizen to blame for the current state of affairs. To accept the gay culture, people have to see that their families are not that different from the ones of the homosexual people. However, the law banning marriage between people of the same sex stands in the way of gay people finally getting their rights.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Same-Sex Marriage in the United States of America specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Major concepts and sociological factors When tackling the issue of homosexual marriage, one must mention that it has to deal with a number of related concepts. To start with, the fact that same-sex marriages are prohibited in most states of the USA raises the question concerning tolerance. While the nation seems well past the aggressive outbursts against hom osexual people, ripping the latter of their right to have a family can be considered an infringement of people’s indisputable rights. The legal aspect also needs a proper mentioning when talking about gay marriage. While gay marriage can and, quite honestly, must be seen as an indisputable right of homosexual people, it is still necessary to admit that legally, the procedure in question cannot be considered marriage. Since by definition, marriage is a bond between a man and a woman, technically, the procedure of two same-sex people becoming legally bond cannot be called marriage until the definition of the latter is changed. Therefore, the problem of definition comes along with the social and political issues (Baskerville, 2006). Speaking of the political aspect of gay marriage, the phenomenon of family must be considered closer. It is necessary to admit that social approval of the institution of family comes not only from the desire to make people’s lives complete and decent, but from the fact that family as a social institution allows for a better control over the population, stronger social structure and an efficient social hierarchy (Ryan, 2009). As an institution, a family serves as a perfect way to help people get their priorities straight. Therefore, once shaken, this institution will no longer be as efficient as it is now, which must be the prospect that scares authorities the most. With that being said, it must be admitted that the loss of control over most social processes is the key problem that prevents state authorities approve of gay marriage. Making such a controversial issue as marriage between homosexual people legitimate, the state authorities are most likely to lose the trust of a considerable number of people, which must be why gay marriage still remains banned in thirty-seven states.  Eventually, the concept of religion must be brought up, since it raises the greatest controversy and contributes to fueling the conflict. Sum mary, Conclusion and Recommendations With that being said, it must be admitted that gay people are yet to fight for their rights. While legally, allowing marriage between homosexuals follows the principles of democracy, religious and social aspects together with the lack of tolerance and the unwillingness to accept homosexuality as a norm will not let same-sex marriages become a reality.Advertising Looking for research paper on social sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The given state of affairs is, doubtlessly, deplorable; as the citizens of the USA, American homosexual people have the right to have their own families. Nevertheless, the government of most of the U.S. states tends to avoid solving the use. The hesitation or, in some cases, outright denial of the state authorities to authorize same-sex marriages is quite understandable, though. Once allowing for a bill as controversial as same-sex marriage to be passed, local authorities are more than likely to lose the support of a number of citizens, not to mention the church. In addition, the reconsideration of the definition of marriage will lead to shaking the basic principles of society, which is far too dangerous to undertake. Anyway, a reasonable compromise must be found, since the current banning of homosexual marriage can be viewed as the infringement of people’s rights and freedom of choice. Reference List Baskerville, S. (2006). Politics and same-sex marriage. Society, 44(1), 60à ¢â‚¬â€œ66. Ryan, P. J. (2009). Here’s your ‘traditional marriage.’ The Gay Lesbian Review  Worldwide, 16(6), 25. Williams, R. (2011). Same-sex marriage and equality. Ethical theory and Moral Practice,  14(5), 589–595. This research paper on Same-Sex Marriage in the United States of America was written and submitted by user Hayleigh S. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here. Same Introduction Marriage has been regarded as one of the most important social institutions in the society. This is because it forms the basis of organization in any given society. â€Å"Marriage refers to an institution in which interpersonal relationships, usually intimate and sexual, are acknowledged in a variety of ways, depending on the culture or subculture in which it is found† (Dziengel, 2010).Advertising We will write a custom critical writing sample on Same-Sex Marriage specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Marriage is treated quite differently depending on the norms and values that exist in a given society. The current society is experiencing many social changes, which have influenced the nature of relationships among human beings. Marriage has also been affected by these social changes. Same Sex Unions Marriage is today very dynamic and people treat it differently from what it used to be in the past. Same sex unions are becoming popular in many countries and they are quite prevalent in European countries as compared to other places. Same sex marriage is commonly known as gay marriage. â€Å"It refers to a legally or socially recognized marriage between two persons of the same biological sex or social gender† (Goldberg, 2010). History of Same Sex Unions â€Å"Various types of same sex marriages have existed, ranging from informal, unsanctioned relationships to highly ritualized unions† (Haider Joslyn, 2008). The early practice of this type of marriage was witnessed when Emperor Nero married a man who was serving as a servant in his Roman Empire. Apart from Rome, this practice occurred in China during the Ming Dynasty and also in Spain. This type of marriage had very bad reputation and it was strongly rejected by many individuals and countries. â€Å"This attitude has been changing in the past few decades† (Haider Joslyn, 2008). The twenty first century has witnessed a drastic change in the way people perceive this type of relationship. Netherlands in the year 2001 emerged to be the first country to allow gay relationships. In 2003 the government of Belgium accepted this type of union. In 2005 both Canada and Spain formally accepted gay marriages. In 2006 the people of South African were allowed to practice gay marriages. Sweden allowed it in 2009. Last year, Argentina, Iceland and Portugal also accepted this kind of relationship. In Mexico it is legalized but with some restrictions in the sense that it can only be practiced within the city of Mexico. However, all Mexican states acknowledge it.Advertising Looking for critical writing on gender studies? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More â€Å"Israel does not recognize same sex marriages performed on its territory, but recognizes same sex marriages performed in foreign jurisdiction† (Ronner, 2005). Apart form South Africa, other African countrie s still remain conservative and they are not willing to accept this relationship. â€Å"In the United States, although same sex marriages are not recognized federally, same sex couples can marry in five states and one district† (Smith, 2010). Debate on Gay Marriage Opposing Arguments The subject of gay marriage has been seriously debated in many places. This issue has been discussed both in religious and political circles. The following arguments have been used to reject gay marriage. The general question is that why should people practice this kind of relationship? This is what the majority of people opposed to it seem to be asking whenever this issue is raised in any discussion. This people contend that legal relationships are only those between men and women. Hence they do not see the sense of people engaging in any other type of intimate relationship (Ronner, 2005). Marriage is often seen as a religious rite and in this case people look at it from the religious perspectiv e. They therefore believe that if gay marriage is legitimized it would undermine the religious principles. This is because religion has always been used to sanctify marriages (Farrior, 2009). The dignity of the church has been affected because of the different attitudes adopted by religious leaders on this matter. Some churches are likely to get split because they cannot come to an agreement on how to handle this issue. This has adversely affected their capacity to spread the gospel. Some members of the church have even lost their faith and trust in religion because they do not agree with the church leaders who support this kind of relationship. For example, the Anglican Church members and their leaders have been arguing about gay marriages. Since some of them support it, they have now formed a separate church. The Catholic Church has also had the same problem. Some Catholic monks have also been accused of child molestation and this has really affected their reputation. Marriage is naturally understood as an institution for raising children. Same sex marriages do not give children an opportunity to have a good development. â€Å"In this case some individuals strongly feel that same sex partners can not provide the moral and psychological support required for raising children† (Goldberg, 2010). This is because such children would find it quite unusual when they realize that their parents have the same sex. This can really affect them psychologically (Goldberg, 2010).Advertising We will write a custom critical writing sample on Same-Sex Marriage specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Gay marriages are understood as unnatural unions. â€Å"This premise influences other arguments and lies behind many negative opinions about homosexuality in general† (Acevado Wada, 2011). Since gay relationships are not normal, they should be reduced to social unions instead of being authenticated by the national leader s in a given country. This is because if such abnormal behaviors are allowed, they are likely to become very prevalent in our society in the near future. This may cause very many social problems. Marriage is also an important cultural symbol. â€Å"Apart from marriage being an institution, it is also a symbol representing our culture’s ideals about sex, sexuality, and human relationships† (Haider Joslyn, 2008). Symbols are very important because it is through them that we develop a sense of belonging to a given society or race. â€Å"Thus when the traditional nature of marriage is challenged in any way, so are people’s basic identities† (Haider Joslyn, 2008). It would also be difficult and expensive to integrate this people into the society. This is because people have to be taught to accept them. â€Å"Teaching people to become tolerant to gay individuals would be expensive† (Smith, 2010). Supporting Arguments Even though gay marriage is not sup ported by some people, I disagree with them because of the following arguments. Marriage enables people to have access to social and economic needs. â€Å"Studies repeatedly demonstrate that people who marry tend to be better off financially, emotionally, psychologically, and even medically† (Ronner, 2005). Therefore if gay couples are guaranteed the right to marry they will probably have the chance to benefit from being married. This will also be helpful to the gay communities at large. For example the gay couples would remain committed in helping each other because of the marriage vows. It would also be wrong for gay relationships to be treated as civil unions. This is because if the gay individuals can get married, they stand a better chance of enjoying several opportunities. This can not be the case if they are in civil unions. â€Å"Equality before the law means that creating civil unions for gays will lead to civil unions for every one else and this type of marriage wi ll be more of a threat than gay unions could possibly be† (Farrior, 2009). The stability of our society can be enhanced if gay individuals can be given a chance to marry. Even the people who oppose this relationship believe that the family is the basis of our society. Therefore, if more families are formed through gay marriages, we can have a great society. The family also dictates the general trend in the society. Marriage would also facilitate the integration of gay people into their communities. Accepting gay relationships will therefore enhance the strength of our communities.Advertising Looking for critical writing on gender studies? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Many children are leading poor lifestyles and they cannot even access the common basic needs. Destitute children can have a chance to lead a good life if they can be adopted by married gay individuals. This is because they can provide emotional and financial support to such children. This can only be possible if they can be allowed to get married and adopt children. Many people and groups are increasingly becoming conscious, and more concerned about the human rights. â€Å"Another argument that favors same sex marriages is that denying same sex couples legal access to marriage and all of its attendant benefits represents discrimination based on sexual orientation† (Dziengel, 2010). Many people and institutions promoting human rights concur with this assertion. People in same sex unions do not access the rights given to the married people. Gay couples have faced myriad challenges. Most of them have experienced psychological problems associated with verbal and physical abuse. F or example, some of them have been attacked and brutally killed. This is because many people are not wiling to be associated with them hence they always intimidate them. One way of eliminating this stigmatization is by simply making it legal for them to get married. It has also been noted with a lot of concern that HIV/AIDS is spreading among the gay people because they operate illegally. Marriage would make this people more faithful to their partners. This can reduce the chances of them contracting HIV/AIDS because they will be more responsible. Conclusion From the above argument it is very clear that many countries and individuals are increasingly accepting the fact that gay relationships are equally good. It is therefore important for people to stop being conservative only when it comes to marriage, yet they accept other serious changes that take place in their society. For example, if abortion can be legalized, why no not gay marriages? â€Å"Legalizing gay marriages will proba bly make the social economic and political institutions in our societies more effective† (Smith, 2010). This is because people will have similar goals, and they will not have differences based on sexual orientation. I am therefore optimistic that in the near future many people will support same sex relationships. References Acevado, G., Wada, R. (2011). Religion and attitudes toward same sex marriages among U.S. Latinos. Wiley -Blackwell Social Science Quarterly, 92, 35-56. Benard, S. (2009). Heterosexual previlage awareness, previlage and support of gay marriage among diversity course students. EBSCOhost Journal, 58, 3-7. Dziengel, L. (2010). Advocacy coalitions and punctuated equilibriam in the same sex marriage debate: learning from pro-LGBT policy changes in Minneapolis and Minnesota. Journal of Gay and Lesbian services, 22, 165-182. Farrior, S. (2009). Human rights advocacy on gender issues: challanges and opportunites. Oxford Journal of Human Rights Practice, 1, 83-100. Goldberg, A. (2010). Lesbian and gay parents and their children: research on the family life cycle. Claiming a place at the family table: gay and lesbian families in the 21st century, 72, 230-233. Haider, D., Joslyn, M. (2008). Belives about the origin of homosexuality and support for gay rights. Oxford Journals public Opinion Quarterly, 72, 291-310. Ronner, A. (2005). Homophobia and the law (law and public policy). New York: American Psychological Association. Smith, M. (2010). Gender politics and same sex marriage debate in the United States. Oxford Jourrnals Social Politics, 17, 1-28. This critical writing on Same-Sex Marriage was written and submitted by user Monica Miller to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here. Same