Radical Religion’s Role

The most ardent supporters of the ban on same-sex marriages usually cite their religion as a reason for denying gays the right of marriage.  An example of this would be the GOP’s party platform in Texas, which is, in my observations, a firmly fundamental state.  It read’s like so regarding same-sex marriage:

 “We believe that the practice of homosexuality tears at the fabric of society, contributes to the breakdown of the family unit, and leads to the spread of dangerous, communicable diseases. Homosexual behavior is contrary to the fundamental, unchanging truths that have been ordained by God, recognized by our country’s founders, and shared by the majority of Texans. Homosexuality must not be presented as an acceptable “alternative” lifestyle in our public education and policy, nor should “family” be redefined to include homosexual “couples.” We are opposed to any granting of special legal entitlements, refuse to recognize, or grant special privileges including, but not limited to: marriage between persons of the same sex (regardless of state of origin), custody of children by homosexuals, homosexual partner insurance or retirement benefits. We oppose any criminal or civil penalties against those who oppose homosexuality out of faith, conviction, or belief in traditional values.” (sourced from Shakesville, which posted a pdf of the GOP’s party platform--the blog itself is biased in favor of the left-wing, so I would not recommend forming opinions from the author's personal content)

I find the bigotry and hostility expressed in this article shocking.  Why do these people hate gay people so fervently?  Some supporters of gay marriage may respond to this question by labeling their opponents as homophobic because of their irrational fears of gays threatening their sexual security (I do not necessarily support this as the single source of this issue).  I do agree that homophobia must play a significant part in the ban of same-sex marriage, but the opposition to the issue might rise from ignorance as well.  People who are miss-informed, not exposed to the gay community, or taught to despise gays are set to be against the position from the onset.  I believe that radical religious beliefs might give people who fit the descriptions I listed above a medium by which to channel their fears of the gay community to the open.  Fundamental religion can also instigate the beliefs itself.  For example, say a young teenager, whose mind is still in its prime stages of development and malleability, clicks on a biased website such as this, and absorbs the information presented on the web page.  Strong language with firmly established positions can easily draw the attention of an impulsive young adult, reforming their views to encompass sometimes radical or dangerous beliefs.  I myself once fit well into this category of teenagers, falling into radical social movements that I could feed my developing independent opinions and pent-up frustration to.  

            I will continue this topic in my next post. I still used resources from BalancedPolitics.org.