Blog Stage 8

Conspiracy theories have also been of great interest to me. I have spoken briefly with Professor Seago concerning the nature of these theories. I've concluded that humans have always been and will always be skeptical by nature. It is quite natural to question the world around us, and it is only right to question the legitimacy of our leaders. The fact that we, as American citizens, always do not receive the complete truth gives us this right to question. You mention fighting for change in the case that we don't believe in the legitimacy of our President. I think this feeling of illegitimacy goes hand in hand with lack of political participation. Hypothetically, if I feel distrust in the government and President, I will most likely not feel the need to participate in politics. At the end of the day, I take conspiracy theories with a grain of salt. They sure are interesting, though.

Prop 8

On August 4, 2010, Judge Vaughn Walker overturned Proposition 8, a California measure that states "only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California". As I have stated my views before, I am wholly against discrimination and fully support equality for all individuals. I am a heterosexual male that supports same-sex marriage. All in all, I believe most opponents are simply uncomfortable with the lifestyle choices of homosexual and bisexual individuals; therefore, I cannot fathom why most opponents care as much as they do.

One major aspect of this debate is the role of religion; in this case, it is the Bible. Without a doubt, religion has played a huge role for American history. Many early Americans first migrated across the Atlantic Ocean, because of religious persecution; they desired religious freedom. To this day, most Americans would consider themselves to be religious, and in fact, most politicians would say they follow a particular faith. Much of the debate comes from certain text in the Bible that denounces homosexuality. Opponents believe homosexuality, in its essence, is a sin. From their perspective, "it's not what God wanted". I have controversial views on religion and I am quite aware of it. Most people would find my views foolish and would quickly proclaim that I'm going to Hell. In my opinion, I think certain parts of the Bible are clearly outdated and I believe you cannot take the Bible too literally. Society and culture has changed so much, that you cannot possibly apply the Bible to every situation. In some ways to me, I think of it like our Constitution. The founding fathers set down some basic rules and over time, our government has had to adapt to societal changes. I'm aware that many people believe it's "the word of God", but I think there comes a point where I believe people should just look at the Bible at face value, and look at its teachings in a more general sense. As you are reading this, (assuming you are religious), I'm assuming your head is filled with anger because of my beliefs. Essentially, that's also one of my gripes with religion. There are too many people that like to force their beliefs unto others and quickly denounce those that do not share their beliefs. Personally, I don't have a problem with anyone's beliefs, so long as you respect mine. I only say that, because I know there are individuals that have very strong beliefs in religion. I respect that.

Back on the topic of same-sex marriage, I don't believe it should be a religious issue. Inherently, it SHOULD be a human rights issue. However, like I've stated, this country is still very much religious, as a whole. Because of that, I believe that will be the downfall of same-sex legislation for the future. I don't understand why opponents believe it is moral and ethical to dictate how someone else lives their life, in regards to marriage. I understand that they think it's a sin, but it shouldn't be like that. People should be allowed to live their life as they please. Also, let's face it, homosexuality won't go away. It's not a disease that you can cure. Why don't we start respecting the human rights of homosexuals and let them live how they want to? Without the role of religion. Hopefully, states will follow California's lead and allow same-sex marriage.

(My opinion. Don't attack me with your religious beliefs, please?)

Blog Stage 6: DADT

I am fairly new to this concept of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell". As a heterosexual male, I support the inclusion of homosexual and bisexual individuals in the military. From my perspective, I view it as another form of discrimination - nothing new in the history of America. In the Civil War, the inclusion of black soldiers in the forces was a very controversial topic. Surely, the majority of soldiers were uncomfortable fighting alongside those, who in normal times, were their servants and slaves. During the Spanish-American war, our forces were in need of men and looked for help from black volunteers. However, unsurprisingly, this met with much opposition. Ultimately, more than ten thousand black soldiers were recruited to fight in the battlefield.

In regards to homosexuality and bisexuality, I believe people are entitled to their own personal sexual preferences. I truly do not understand why people are bothered by the sexual preferences of someone other than themselves. From a religious perspective, I can understand; however, religion does not play a significant role in my life to dictate how I perceive other people. 

In my opinion, in times of need, I think soldiers should suspend their personal beliefs, for the sake of our country. However, I realize that most people are not comfortable enough to do that. I think it's fairly obvious that I am all for equality. I believe DADT is merely modern-day discrimination and with time, I hope the military will someday realize this.