Part of the discussion that we had regarding homosexuality encompassed what defines homosexuality. Is it acting on sexual urge or just a stigmatized behavior? I have a hard time believing that it's anything other than one's behavior. So much emphasis is placed on behaviors and attitudes when discussing "homophobia."
It also appears that once someone has been labeled as a "queer" that it stays with the forever. A good example of this is the Bill Maher video we watched with the interview of the "converted gay." Even though the man and his wife no longer engage in homosexual actions, Maher still regards them as homosexuals. This supports the idea that homosexuality is determined by behavior instead of actions. This also alludes to the idea that homosexuality is psychologically innate rather than a personal choice.
I think, as a society, it is important that we dismiss these notions to resolve homophobia. The fact that society labels homosexuals based on their behavior creates a stigma which instills homophobia within some individuals. And it's difficult to explain this, but the existence of homophobia perpetuates further homophobia. Overall, it's just crucial to discover a way to make everyone comfortable by dissolving stigmas. What are your thoughts?
I feel, when it comes to sexual conditions, both behavior and action come into play in determining one's sexual orientation. If you act like you are homosexual, like cross dress for example, that could determine that you are homosexual. And you can choose to be llike that if you want. Or if you do acts, then that could determine your sexuality as well. But I don't think its one or the other, I think it's both. And I feel that personal choice plays a part when it comes too sexuality.
ReplyDeleteBut when it comes to choice, I don't believe in the "converted gay". That's a dumb term. You can't automatically convert yourself to single. You are who you are. Its the labeling that's the problem. Calling someone gay, means automatically that they are homosexual, and straight automatically means that they are heterosexual. Some people, even interact with both. I really don't think that people should be forced to be one or the other.