Philosophical Implications of Legal Recognition/Denial of LGBT Relationships
LGBT stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender. These individuals form part of a minority group that has faced discrimination from society due to their gender identity and orientation. Despite being present since time immemorial, this community was considered unacceptable until recently when some countries began recognizing them legally through marriage and civil unions.
Others have continued to deny them legal recognition. This essay explores how this act impacts societal morality using philosophical reasoning and empirical data.
The philosophical implication of legal recognition of LGBT relationships is that it validates the existence of these people. People belonging to this community are viewed as nonconformists who do not follow what society deems right regarding gender roles. Therefore, they face stigma and discrimination. The legal recognition of LGBT relationship means that the law considers them equal to heterosexuals. It shows that the world acknowledges their humanity and dignity.
Denying legal recognition implies that the world does not accept them fully because they do not conform to the norms set by society. Society believes that men should be with women and vice versa. Thus, same-sex relationships are unnatural. Denying legal recognition gives LGBT members the feeling of rejection and isolation. They continue living in secrecy or fear being discovered. Denying legal recognition also means that such couples cannot enjoy some privileges accorded to those in traditional marriages, like tax benefits, inheritance rights, insurance, and other social services.
The empirical evidence supporting this argument comes from research studies on the psychological effects of LGBT individuals. According to one study, same-sex couples experience higher levels of stress than their counterparts due to the constant fear of being found out (Nam et al., 2016). When their sexual identity is recognized, they can seek professional help if necessary without worrying about exposure. Legal recognition helps improve mental health among gays and lesbians. Studies have shown that they tend to become more productive when they feel accepted and valued by society.
Societal morality will always play a crucial role in determining whether we recognize or deny these relationships.
Legal recognition improves the welfare of LGBT people by validating their existence and promoting equality.
What are the philosophical implications of legal recognition or denial of LGBT relationships on societal morality?
The issue of the legal recognition or denial of LGBT relationships has long been a contentious one that has generated heated debates over social values and moral standards. From a philosophical perspective, there are multiple implications on the broader society's ethics, beliefs, and norms that come with either decision.