[The Green Goblin]

If I take the conservative position that the encouragement of the institution of marriage is a legitimate role of gov't, what should be my reason or it's involvement, if not to encourage couples to bring children into, and raise them in, a proven, stable environment?

If that's your position, then you are guilty of discriminating against taxpaying gay citizens by unjustly denying them the benefits of marriage. That's the problem--not the "kids in a stable environment" part...

[BMiles2112]

You forgot discrimination against young heterosexuals not yet married. And polygamists, don't forget them.
Gays can marry someone of the opposite sex, the same as I can. Why should they get special rights, specific to their lifestyle?

[BMiles2112]

Are you trying to pull this discussion into a debate over the gov't being in/out of the business of marriage or do you honestly want "gay marriage"? I ask because, as you've stated, you want the gov't out, which is a fine position to take, but simply one that I honestly don't have the time to get into right now, and may be better debated on a different thread (Run-on, I know).If you're trying to argue that "gay marriage" should be endorsed by the state, then you've already contradicted yourself. I'm guessing it's the former, but I truly am curious.