Debunking the Regnerus Study

A 2012 study by sociologist Mark Regnerus aims to show that children of same-sex parents fare differently—and indeed, markedly worse—than children in “intact biological families.” John Corvino explains the study’s major flaws.

Do Children Need a Mother and Father?

Some people oppose letting same-sex couples marry on the grounds that “children need a mother and father.” John Corvino shows that this argument proceeds from what is not true (about child welfare) to what does not follow (about marriage law).

The Definition of Marriage

Opponents of same-sex marriage often claim that same-sex “marriage” is impossible by definition: that marriage just MEANS a man and a woman. Here, John Corvino shows how this argument misunderstands both history and language.

Is Homosexuality Unnatural?

What does it mean when people call same-sex relations “unnatural,” and why should that judgment matter anyway? Philosopher John Corvino takes apart this claim, demonstrating that, in the usual cases, it’s empty rhetorical flourish.

Why Marriage? (Why not Civil Unions?)

Some people wonder why the fight for marriage rights is important to gays and lesbians, given marriage’s spotty history. Others wonder why it’s important to call it “marriage” — aren’t “civil unions” enough? John Corvino explains why the rights and responsibilities of marriage are important, and how “separate but equal” never really ends up being… Continue reading Why Marriage? (Why not Civil Unions?)