Don't ask, don't tell?

Question

It seems like a very homophobic policy in the military. I mean, shouldn't people be able to express teir sexual orientation without being persecuted for it? My question is, are there any redeeming qualities to this policy?

Answer 1

I wrote a 9 page research paper covering all the issues of this topic a few months back. There are redeeming qualities, but all of them are flawed. Like for instance, it is supposed to stop discrimination, as you can't make fun of someone for being gay if they don't admit it... suposedly. But eveyrbody knows that gay jokes are said to people no amtter if theya re gay or straight. Also, peopel are ALWAYS accusing others of being gay. That is jsut one of it's "redeeming" qualities that fail. If you're interested in beingcoming VERY informed aobut this topic, here is a link to my paper.

http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dd94fq4c_6f3vb68

It's double spaced and such, so that is why it looks so long...really it isn't long to read, and is wirten very conversationaly, so shoudl be easy to understand.

hope this helps, I worked hard on it! got a good grade as well as learned a lot while writing it!

Answer 2

The army has always been a bulwark for conservatism. We're in the 2000s, but the mindset of the Military top brass is stuck in the 50s.
Its not right. Some people have defended the policy, but if the army does find out you are gay, even if you do not tell them, you are discharged and recieve no benefits.

Answer 3

I think it's a good policy. You see people can be gay there is not much that can be done about that but nobody wants to hear them talking about male sexual attraction. You people are complaining about homophobia in every way possible. Many straight people don't care about your orientation that's not what the army is for.

Answer 4

there is a benefit, because if a homosexual does enjoy being in the military, there is very little chance of him being discriminated for it, so that they can enjoy what they're doing, as can everyone else around them. Though i must say, having done some extensive research on this subject for a series of debates, i find it disgustingly homophobic and close-minded, but somewhat useful for the purpose of maintaining less hatred among the ranks of our soldiers.

Answer 5

The only redeeming quality, as far as I can tell, is that they no longer ask the question, forcing gays to lie (lying to questions when you're signing up can get you dishonorably discharged).

Answer 6

No there are no redeeming qualities to the policies. If we can die for our freedoms we should have the freedoms.

Answer 7

I look at army as an employment, as any other job, etc with long lasting traditions. I agree that no one should be discriminated based on their sexuality. But sexuality should be personal. There is no place for it in professional environment. I think that it is unnecessary to advertise your sexuality at any place.

Answer 8

Sad as it is, I think it keeps those who are gay in the military safe from all the freaks out there. It's so sad that it has to be that way, but there are lots of mean, judgemental people out there. For instance,look at the horrible people that are protesting at funerals. It's sick!

Answer 9

I don't see any redeeming qualities in it...

Answer 10

Hey! Don't even have to ask. Their actions speak louder than words.
Asked my manager if the two females living at the unit were lesbians and the answer was no. Then I see the two of them kissing at the door kissing all the time. Hows that for an answer?
As for the military asking, they have all the right to ask. Gotta stop the disease from spreading.