To accept that they are born homosexuals is to take away the main argument of the homosexual ping list group here on FR. They believe that it is completely a chosen lifestyle, and hence should not be accepted because it never existed to begin with. Few Americans would agree. And most Americans do accept homosexuals as such, but begin to disagree on the extent to which homosexuals should be legally recognized. As to the influence they may have on others not so predisposed, I have seen no unbiased studies to suggest there is any linkage. As I pointed out in an earlier post, the strong Christian family lifestyle of Cheney, Randall Terry, and Alan Keyes, all of whom produced homosexual children would certainly lead one to conclude that something other than the environment is the causal factor.
You make the point that homosexuality may be a disorder of the likes of kleptomania or alcoholism. That may be, though some disorders impact the rights of others such as kleptomania and cannot be accepted. Alcoholism clearly destroys a life and the families of those involved. Many would suggest that homosexuality, even as a disorder, is not in that category.
Can homosexuals be reprogrammed? Again, the only evidence that I have seen is anecdotal. Yes, you can program someone to discontinue homosexual activities. Few believe you can actually change their biological or psychological makeup, merely their conduct.
Not to mention that homosexuals want to form bonds with kids in ways that heterosexuals would never demand. Can you imagine young heterosexual men demanding that the Girl Scouts be closed down unless they allow young men to take little girls camping?
Again, the jury is clearly out. The assumption that a homosexual is any more predisposed to try and bring children into their lifestyle is full of anecdotes, many of which are no doubt true, but pedophilia is a problem of heterosexuals as well. There are clearly some homosexual groups who believe the only way to acceptance is to teach by means of graphic presentation. This should be no more acceptable than the same in the heterosexual vein.
As for growing numbers which I have seen discussed here, and which I presume is your point of #2 and #3 example, I've seen nothing indicating a growing percentage. As far as I know, they are still in the 5 to 7 percent range, as has been the norm for years.
Some believe that homosexuals spread aids much more than do heterosexuals. I won't argue the point for it may well be true. But if that's so, why do people not accept some sort of union that would stop the spread of aids?
The bottom line is that some legalization of unions is going to continue, depending on the state. In my state, gay marriage will likely never be acceptable. That's fine with me, but to be sure, I would prefer two gays or lesbians living together than running around spreading diseases. For me it is clearly a state issue, and no business of the federal government...or of the Constitution.
Both your posts are excellent, and face up to the social facts. Even though you disagree, you each make valid points.
The question of children being influenced into getting into homosexuality is a very valid one. Of course there are no figures, but the attitude of teenagers to experimenting in sex is a lot more free than it was before homosexuality became legal. If they thought they could be arrested and 'exposed' for messing in something they just have a curiosity for, then they are likely to give it a miss.
Even from my own personal aquaintances over the years, I can confirm that I know individuals who became totally addicted to homosexual sex after trying it out through curiosity.