Homophobia
Why are people so homophobic? In an interview with Judith Butler, she mentions those congress members who say that they don't think about homosexuals or have anything to say about them. Yet, when it comes to legislation protecting the GLBT community from discrimination, these people are the first to speak up against the passing of these laws. The truth seems to come through that not only are these members completely preoccupied with homosexuality, but they are absolutely petrified of it. And because they are so scared, they become homophobic.
Does this line of reasoning make sense?
Comments
As we discussed earlier today, I agree with this line of reasoning. However, I would add in that the members are petrified for two reasons, one is they are scared of what it means to them personally and the other is what, in their perceptions, it could potentially mean if those issues are brought into the mainstream. It would be the death of the culture many of those see as the country's only culture and that is another thing they can't fathom.
Posted by: Matt | March 1, 2008 04:30 PM
Politicians should not be seen accurate representations of the population's views on certain matters, or so I hope. I have a hard time abandoning the pessimistic idea that what politicians say is proportional only to the views of the rich.
As for the rest of the population, I can imagine it would be somewhat difficult to change the views with which one grows up. Perhaps because I grew up in an environment filled with gay-rights supporters, I find that many who are homophobic hide it--as if they are ashamed of it. And even though the idea of reclusive homophobes could signify nothing on a wide spectrum, I am inclined to believe it indicates that people are trying to bring themselves to accept the idea of equality among the sexual orientations. Even if this isn't true, isn't it a nice thought?
By the way, I found your blog address in the Purple Onion hidden notebook (along with my friend who I believe left a comment with the name S).
Posted by: Veronica | April 7, 2008 03:22 PM
That is so funny! I didn't think anyone would see that! That just made my whole day :)
Posted by: Jessica Englund | April 7, 2008 03:56 PM