Same Sex Marriage and Religious Freedom

Introduction

The debate over same-sex marriage has persisted throughout much of this century. While strides toward equality have been made, obstacles remain—often in the form of individuals or institutions. These obstacles can include government policies or the views of older generations resistant to change. In this essay, I focus on the role of religious beliefs as a barrier to marriage equality, specifically analyzing the article "‘Gay Marriage’ or Religious Freedom: You Can’t Have Both" by Benjamin Wiker. This piece, published in the National Catholic Register, represents the longstanding conflict between marriage equality and religious convictions, despite the principle of church-state separation.

Analysis of the Article

Based on its title and publication venue, Wiker's article appears to target a Christian audience resistant to same-sex marriage. It reads like a "call to action," warning readers that their morals are supposedly under siege by governmental forces. This perspective suggests that the article aims to galvanize opposition to marriage equality by framing it as a threat to religious values. However, it is crucial to challenge the notion that such a threat exists and to question whether the concept of "religious freedom" is being misused to justify discrimination.

Critique of the Argument

The article's argument primarily appeals to ethos and pathos, attempting to stir fear and defensiveness among its audience. It posits that legalizing same-sex marriage would exacerbate challenges for Christians, but it lacks logical rigor (logos) and instead relies on speculative assertions. One notable logical fallacy is the false analogy between same-sex marriage and abortion, suggesting a governmental vendetta without substantive evidence. Such comparisons distract from the discussion of same-sex marriage as a matter of basic human rights.

Conclusion

Ultimately, Benjamin Wiker's article suffers from a lack of factual accuracy and reliance on assumptions. It is imperative for discussions on sensitive issues like same-sex marriage to be grounded in fact and respect for human rights. While opposition to same-sex marriage may persist, it should not dictate who is entitled to fundamental rights. The hope is that individuals like Wiker and those who share his views will reconsider their stance and foster a more inclusive and respectful dialogue.

References

Wiker, B. (n.d.). ‘Gay Marriage’ or Religious Freedom: You Can’t Have Both. National Catholic Register. Retrieved from [URL of the article]