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A Challenge to the Definition of Marriage

This is a question that is on a lot of people’s mind recently, as gay and lesbian couples have been demanding the right to marry, if they choose. Marriage as an institution has been a part of North American society for generations. Some form of marriage exists in all societies, which would tend to make one think that there is something about this institution that satisfies a need that is common to all people. A basic part of the definition of marriage for all previous societies is that the partners be of the opposite gender.

A Question of Equality Rights

Some people in favor of changing the definition of marriage to include same-sex couples will argue that this is simply a matter of basic equality rights under the law. They seek to be treated in just the same manner under the law as heterosexual couples in that they would like to see their unions affirmed and valued by the rest of society.

Some people have even gone so far as to suggest that either the definition of marriage be changed to include same-sex couples or that the government stop using this word entirely. They might argue that the definition of marriage is a commitment between two persons. It could be argued that other types of relationships would fit this criteria, whether they actually included sexual intimacy or not.

A Stable and Committed Relationship

It can be argued that the best way in which to raise children is by two parents who are both married to and committed to each other. In the past, there was no question that marriage was an exclusive, permanent union between one man and one woman.

For Christians, especially, marriage is seen to be more than a contract between two adults. It is also a covenant and as such is seen to be something that cannot be dissolved like a business relationship. This is an attempt to promote stability in society. They feel that marriage provides a deeper commitment than mere cohabitation.

The Capacity to Procreate

The potential for having children is also a part of traditional marriage. With advancements in modern technology, it is certainly possible for same-sex couples to either become biological parents to a child or to adopt children. It is believed that children benefit from being raised by the two people who created them and that this is an important part of the child’s identity.

An Institution Designed to Protect the Vulnerable

Marriage was regulated in law as a means of protecting women and children, who would be left at a disadvantage if the marriage broke down. Entering into the institution of marriage brought with it certain rights and responsibilities, which made it different from other types of relationships in society.

Legal Options

A separate opposite-sex definition of marriage could be adopted. This would allow jurisdictions to continue to recognize traditional marriage but allow gay and lesbian couples to have a permanent legal relationship. The two institutions would exist side-by-side with each other.

Another option would be to adopt a brand new definition of marriage as being the union of two persons, regardless of gender. This definition would remove the idea of procreation as being an integral part of marriage.

Still a third option to change the definition of marriage would be to replace marriage with a sort of civil registry for what would be known as domestic relationships. Marriage would then be relegated to religious institutions only.

Only time will tell if the definition of marriage as we know it will change, and if these changes will be for the better.