Society is expected to do the enlightened thing, toss gays a jersey and put at risk the meaning attached at the institution. This would be fine and well, except for the fact many aren't committed to a two-way-street moral outcome. Gays want unconditional acceptance, but reserve the right for additional special consideration should things not meet their expectations.
The important moral reasoning overlooked by Kevin Rudd involves the paradox of equality.
I don't treat a stranger the same as I do my brother. I actively discriminate, questioning whether I will lend him money or provide accommodation. In doing so, I am constantly tested to be open to the idea all human beings are part of the same family. By drawing the line, I take personal responsibility for overcoming my fears and prejudices, be those relating to blood, sexuality, race, gender or whatever.
Advertisement
Our collective goal of a single team, one that treats everyone equally, is entirely dependent upon each individual opting to transcend perceived differences.
Secularized democracy, rather than supporting this effort by embracing genuine cultural pluralism, seeks to create one big happy family by actively erasing human distinctions, be they real or imagined. Instead of recognizing conflict, it attempts to explain it away as bigotry or religious dogma. And when this doesn't work, it calls upon coercive state power to "promote" correct thinking.
The irony is, this self-congratulatory strategy is ultimately divisive. Minority groups are encouraged to play the victim, always seeking additional political concessions. Look, coach, they're still treating me unfairly even though I'm now officially on the team. Unable to take it anymore, someone calls out "shut up, fag", and is summarily suspended and ordered to attend a remedial course on ethics.
Like so many others, Kevin Rudd has been seduced by the emotion.
I'm not for a moment saying homosexuals don't feel real pain or that they aren't sometimes treated poorly. The issue - the only issue in the end - is how we address this as a society. In this regard, I very much doubt legalising gay marriage will achieve the positive net result we are all after.
Discuss in our Forums
See what other readers are saying about this article!
Click here to read & post comments.
55 posts so far.