Can Wrongs Be Rights? Why a 'Conservative' Might Support Legal Protection for Gay and Lesbian People

Abstract

This article addresses the moral argument about what the state should do to protect the civil rights of those who identify as gay or lesbian. It does not address morality but rather focuses on civil rights, arguing that the two issues are different and should thus be thought of differently by Christians. Using an analogy, the author offers an entrance point to the discussion of homosexual rights by concerning the rights of a smoker. It covers (1) what is at stake in offering protection to homosexual people, (2) the civic argument for civil rights, and (3) the moral balancing argument for civil rights. It concludes with a question on convergence of God, the state, and care of this world.

Keywords: Gay, lesbian, homosexual, civil rights, Christianity, God, protection