Editor:
I must insist on taking exception to the criticism of the “self-described tolerant” made in David Glenn’s letter on Apr. 4th. He says, “I have the right to be intolerant when I choose” and thus, that anyone who criticizes him is in all actuality being intolerant himself.
Let’s pretend that he didn’t endorse the “right to intolerance”; in our day and age, that seems rather silly. Instead, pretend that he meant to say something a little more defensible: the opinion that homosexuality is morally acceptable and the opinion that homosexuality is morally wrong are both opinions, and thus either sides’ attempt to convince the other side ought to be classified as (at best) insensitivity and (at worst) hate.
For this, I’m afraid that we require more than a pat statement that “gays are real” or an analogy that exposes a logical contradiction to counter this argument.
Instead, we must discuss the foundations of both opinions — by what moral standard is homosexuality wrong? the Bible? do we follow everything the Bible says? if the answer is no (and it typically is), then why not? what further moral standard are we applying? God? whose God? why does God disapprove of homosexuality in the first place? what moral standard is He using?
On the other hand, is homosexuality okay because it is real? natural? benign? ineradicable? healthy? which moral standards approve of homosexuality?
Basically, we need to get everything on the table. I would like to believe that both sides have a coherent reason for believing what they believe. However, let us never forget: opinions do not deserve devout respect, for they can be wrong.
Thus, when the LGBT takes the inevitable next step — “Homosexuality is morally acceptable, and HERE’S WHY…” — I hope we give them a better reception and that we give them more than a mere accusation of “flaunting” their identity. We have nothing to lose by an open discussion, which the controversial LGBT signs have sparked (kudos!).
If, in pointing out inconsistencies in another’s beliefs, anyone is deemed “intolerant” of intolerance, incoherence, or irrationality, they have my full support.
– Ryan LoweSenior, English