Choosing the Topic
The topic I have chosen for the final research paper is same-sex marriage. The core reason for selecting this topic is that I find it interesting and, at the same, disputable since it reveals numerous contradictions around it. In addition to this, my choice is predetermined by the current concerns on same-sex marriages as well the biases provoked by the improper attitude to sexual minorities. By unveiling the main problems of this topic, I will leave no one to be indifferent to this topic and provide a solid ground for future research of this issue. What is more important is that the topic will be a real calling for the developing countries that deny the existence of gay communities because they lack the proper marriage education.
There are few researches dedicated to the exploration of same-sex marriage as well as to its significance and consequences for contemporary society. Still, there are some who paid attention to this issue. In particular, the emergence of same-sex relations is the sign of the deinstitutionalization of the concept of marriage in society (Cherlin, 2004, p. 849). The changes that occurred at the beginning of the 90s of the past century were predetermined by the changes in social and moral norms. Therefore, the topic has much in store for exploring the changes and their reasons.
Controversies Surrounding the Topic
The topic provokes numerous controversies over same-sex relations and their influence on society. On the one hand, the legalization of same-sex marriages in some European countries constitutes the rise of human rights and freedoms. It is also the confirmation of the self and personal values. On the other hand, the overt manifestation of homosexual relations can erode the established social and moral norms and reduce the role of men and women as optional for creating the family. Apart from this, I have heard numerous debates in the news and blogs discussing the taboos and biases connected with homosexual couples. For instance, when browsing the internet, I came across an interesting video debating same-sex relations. Hence, Lynda Lopez in New Jersey Now News (2007) explores the main controversies on homosexual union and argues the necessity to respect same-sex marriages unions even if such matter of fact does not conform to your visions and ideals.
I have also been the witness of discussion between my friends on this topic. Hence, one of my friends was sure that same-sex marriage is inacceptable for the current society since there a lot of other moral problems should be tackled. However, another friend said that rejecting homosexual relations means disrespect for human rights and self-assertion. Here I agreed with the friend standing for same-sex-marriage since no matter whether we accept or reject sexual minorities, we should respect their values as we respect ours.
Personal Opinion
I cannot but admit, after all the above-considered protests and biases, that same-sex marriage still has the right to existence. Living in the post-modernistic time, when all secrets and forbidden topics are heavily discussed, the same-sex marriage cannot be perceived as something intolerable deserving for general condemnation. Due the frustration of old-fashioned morals and customs, the marriage has acquired a new status and meaning. Now the union of two people is first of all viewed as the manifestation of personal choice and self-development. In other words, the symbolic significance of the marriage has increased, which is, perhaps, the main contribution of sexual minorities to the institution of marriage and human relations.
References
Cherlin, A. J. (2004). The Deinstitutionalization of American Marriage. Journal of Marriage and Family. 66(4), pp. 848-861.
Debate on Same Sex Marriage. (2007). New Jersey Now. Web.