LET OTHERS ENTER INTO MERE CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS:

Ryan T. Anderson has written what will become the standard argument for traditional marriage. Truth Overruled: The Future of Marriage and Religious Freedom is his rational explanation of what marriage is, why it is essential to society, and why it is necessary to enshrine the traditional position in law.

His most important contribution is to identify the two fundamentally competing views of marriage that uncomfortably co-exist in America today. The first is the traditional view of the permanent, exclusive union of one man and one woman inherently aimed at the rearing of children. The competing "consent" version of marriage, in contrast, does not require monogamy, exclusivity, or permanence--only deep consensual romantic attachment.

The foundation of Anderson's argument for traditional marriage is that it is natural, based in human nature, and required for the procreation and development of children within a protective environment. The second type of union puts the "emotional commitment" of the partners before all else and could characterize a heterosexual, homosexual, or other relationship. [...]

The traditional or "comprehensive" view of marriage is not anti-gay but is conceived as the natural means of most effectively raising children from ancient times until today. Anderson argues that limiting marriage to one man and one woman does not violate anyone's rights. Same-sex relationships have been legal for a decade everywhere in the U.S., may even be consecrated by a religion, and most employers will grant them equal benefits. [...]

Anderson sets a fourfold mission for his most important institutions in this battle, the churches: they must frame an appealing case for traditional sexuality; create ministries and meaningful non-marital relationships for those with same-sex attractions; defend their own and others' religious liberties; and provide guidance for those forced to choose between following their faith and the law. Church members must find ways to "live out the truth about marriage and human sexuality" in mutual faithfulness for themselves, their children and their religion.

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