Essential weapon in the gay marriage fight: John Boswell

[Sliverofhope]

Anyone looking to be seriously informed on this issue has got to check out the book

Christianity, Social Tolerance, and Homosexuality
by John Boswell

It's truly illuminating. It demonstrates that Christianity was not always intolerant of homosexuality or of even gay marriage. It is rather scholarly and dense, but it's fascinating.

Even more depressing is the apparent evidence that hatred of homosexuals is really kind of an offshoot of misogyny and militant gender roles. Men who were "dominant" were not looked down upon, but those men who gave up their higher status to be like women were viewed as disgusting.

Since this battle is coming up faster and harder than expected, people who want some good information should read this book.

[Eric J in MN]

1. Can you give us an example of tolerance in the book? nt

nt

[Sliverofhope]

3. I read the book a while back

I'll try and reference my copy for some good information later. Sorry.

[Democrats unite]

2. "Essential weapon in the gay marriage fight"

How about my vote! & millions other like me?

[emanymton]

4. It Is About Equal Rights PERIOD

One is either for equal rights or one is not.

Use reason and be patient. When you address the issue in this light, your position is strong and unssailable.

[Sliverofhope]

5. I agree that this should be the basis

But it's interesting to find evidence that undermines the typical argument against it, that it's immoral or unChristian. I know there's no reasoning with the hardcore types, but there are some ideas that need more circulation.

[pansypoo53219]

6. that sounds like how native americans

regarded their homosexuals, although the wives of soldier women probably did't feel the same. but then, it really wasn't about love then.

[OneBlueSky]

7. Bishop John Shelby Spong . . .

would also be a good resource . . .

http://www.geocities.com/reuther_2000/spong.html