Just wondering. Do you think that a straight guy can express his views about society and the portrayal of homosexuality without being basically being called a hatemonger and being told off for "spewing hatred"? Or is that just the default response?
2007-10-22 07:02:54 · 14 answers · asked by Kong 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Cultures & Groups ➔ Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender
Of course you can. So long as somebody is engaging in logical debate that isn't filled with hateful language intelligent discussion is possible on any topic. I enjoy that there are times people with opposing views will confront me with their thoughts and allow me to counter with mine. It's not about winning or losing the discussion, it's about free exchange of ideas and giving each party a different perspective to reflect on their own opinions with. Peope are never going to agree on everything, but at least if they talk then the possibility exists to understand the reasons behind those disagreements and still get along and respect each other as human beings rather than operate under false assumptions.
2007-10-22 07:26:29 · answer #1 · answered by bi_tgrl 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It all depends on where you're coming from.
If you're saying stuff like, "I'm straight and to me, gays are an abomination! God says so!" then I wouldn't be shocked if people threw rocks at your head, frankly. Why? Because that's not something you can really back up, and it does just fuel hatred.
If you want to say something more along the lines of, "I don't agree with gays saying it's not a choice- I think it is!" and can give reasons to back yourself up, well... people will still disagree with you, but at least you're not exactly speaking AGAINST gays.
My advice would be to avoid religion in any discussion as much as possible, unless the topic is how religion relates to homosexuality and such. Avoid blanket generalizations like "gay guys are all feminine" or "all gym teachers are lesbians" and that sort of talk, don't tell people they'll burn in hell, and you should be good to go.
2007-10-22 14:18:35 · answer #2 · answered by Fire Falcon 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Some to most of the time it should depend on how you approach the discussion. That is, if you open it with X is evil and they will burn in hell, you are not going to get a good response. On the other hand, an opening like "did you really choose your sexual orientation" might get a better reception.
2007-10-22 14:11:59 · answer #3 · answered by Pirate AM™ 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Of course it's possible. But the views have to be reasonable, and he has to keep the discussion fair. He can't use stereotypes or generalizations. If he's willing to debate logically, then other reasonable debaters will welcome that.
Frankly, you might want to reword your question - it sounds a little martyrish, like you're accusing others of being unfair to you, and lumping together all debaters with those who accused you of being a hatemonger.
2007-10-22 14:10:25 · answer #4 · answered by teresathegreat 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It very much depends on -how- you ask the question.
And sometimes you'll recieve answers that are rather blunt just because we see the same tired questions day after day and many are "Homosexuality is an abomination!" or "Burn in hell" rant posts which can get on your nerves unless you develop thick skin or are able to laugh at someone's stupidity.
So, ask a question and we'll see.
2007-10-22 14:09:48 · answer #5 · answered by The Smile Man 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think it is possible but usually it does not happen. It is hard to have a calm discussion about sexuality, politics, and religion. Everybody says that you have your opinion but as soon as you voice that opinion people will attack you if it does not agree with their opinion. Personally I do not like to even talk about this topic because if you don't agree with homosexuality then you are close minded or unintelligent.
2007-10-22 14:45:29 · answer #6 · answered by ben p 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It depends on what his views are and what they are based on.
If he has (apparently) genuine reasons for feeling the way he does, and articulates those feelings without resorting to insulting terms and stereotypes, then I would be fine with him saying he has a problem with gays.
I wouldn't agree with him, but I would respect the fact that it is his personal view and he has a right to express it.
2007-10-22 14:08:48 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yeah you can. I'm a christian and it can be hard telling people what I believe regarding homosexuality. But I always say, which is so true, that I don't dislike homosexual people, I just disagree with their acts. I have nothing against the people, it is only what they do. So just say that, that in your personal opinion you don't really agree with it but that you have nothing against the people and you still respect their decisions.
2007-10-22 14:08:37 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
It's always easier to avoid the argument and attack the person. Trust me, I know! Everytime I see white folks speak about the their issues with the black community, someone yells "Racist". It ends up drowning out the rest of the discussion even if the guy was making a decent point. Don't worry, buddy. I'm still with ya!
2007-10-22 14:06:48 · answer #9 · answered by Comfy! 3 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Well . . . it depends on what you say. I believe in free speech, even for homophobes. Why would being labeled a homophobe bother you?
2007-10-22 22:41:38 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋