Historical and Scientific Perspectives on Homosexuality

Historical and Scientific Perspectives on Homosexuality

Concerning issues related with homosexuality, viewpoints vary depending upon to whom he/she is speaking with. There are various levels of acceptance: some people may believe that living a homosexual lifestyle with a same-sex partner is viewed as acceptable, whereas others are in total opposition to a same-sex union. In addition, questions arise like: Should same-sex couples be able to marry? Are same-sex couples entitled to have their civil rights protected the same as every American? There is no right or wrong answer; it solely depends on each individual’s perspective and whether or not he/she chooses to accept homosexuality as a legitimate union. Homosexuals are in every facet of life to include (but not limited to) the ministry, military, professional venues, and the youth of the United States and is considered by many to be “…just another normal lifestyle.” (Joseph, 2009, para. 1)

Historical Christian Perspectives

Taking the King James Version of the Holy Bible commonly used by Christians in all of its exclusivity, to include both the Old and New Testaments, homosexuality is a sin punishable by death. The author of Leviticus 20: 13 made mention of the mere act of homosexuality a sin in the following manner: “If a man lies with a male as he lies with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination. They shall surely be put to death. Their blood shall be upon them.” (New King James Version of the Holy Bible, 1995.) It is widely known that Christians, those of the Jewish faith and those of the Islamic faith condemn homosexuality and any sexual act that is non-procreative. It must be noted here that some religious groups are beginning to accept homosexuals as part of their congregations with open arms.

Cross-Cultural Perspectives

There are a host of variances that need to be examined regarding cross-cultural perspectives on homosexuality. One must first recognize some (if not all) of those...