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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.
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