To be frank, I come to the debate on same-sex marriage with a considerable bias. In the interest of openness, I must disclose that I am gay.

While some might believe my sexuality hinders my ability to remain neutral on the subject of same-sex marriage, I rely on the hard facts when analyzing the issues gripping our society.

As well, I believe that the public could benefit from hearing the voices of those directly affected by the issue.

To be honest, I do not think most opponents of same-sex marriage are interested in hearing the voices of those they oppose, of those whose rights they wish to restrict.

But now is their chance to listen. Many of the arguments I hear against same-sex marriage are based out of religious belief, prime among them being that same-sex marriage threatens the sanctity of traditional marriage. However, what is considered traditional marriage? Marriage has taken many forms throughout history, across many cultures, and it has included practices such as forced marriage, bartering and polygamy.

I hardly believe marriage between two consensual, loving adults is a threat to the true essence of the modern concept of marriage: the bonds of compassion and devotion between two human beings.

Some say that allowing same-sex marriage is a restriction of their religious liberties. Well, well, isn’t this a lovely load of hypocrisy. To demand the right to restrict the rights of others is not the spirit of the First Amendment.

While the religious might wish to exercise their beliefs freely, the same right must be extended to those who wish to practice a different religious belief or none at all. Christians do not hold a monopoly on the practice of marriage. Marriage rituals extend across many different beliefs with the same religious rights that must not be restricted.

The argument is also made that same-sex marriages must not be allowed because homosexuality is unnatural. However, many human practices and beliefs are unnatural, and marriage certainly falls within this realm.

There are countless species within the animal kingdom that do not practice monogamy, including humans’ closest genetic relatives: chimpanzees and bonobos. As well, bonobos commonly practice acts of homosexuality in nature, as do many other species.

One of the strongest arguments against same-sex marriage is majority rule. Opponents of same-sex marriage state that if the majority of a state’s population do not support the practice, then the practice must not be allowed.

Such an argument strikes at the heart of our democracy. Yes, the will of the people is a driving force in determining the direction of our nation. However, the will of the people is also kept in-check by the rule of the judicial system. Many courts across the nation have determined that restricting the rights of consenting adults to marry is unconstitutional.

Ultimately, it is the informed and thorough judgement of the courts that will determine the final ruling on same-sex marriage, and we are seeing the tides turn in favor of redefining the institution to be more equal and open to all Americans.

Tim Deters is a senior journalism major. He can be reached at 581-2812 or denopinions@gmail.com.