Some cultures have normative beliefs about gender, which are considered to be natural laws that must be followed if society is to function properly. These normative beliefs often include heteronormativity, which holds that all people should identify as cisgender men and women who pair up with each other romantically, reproduce together, and raise children within monogamous marriages. In such cultures, homosexuality and other forms of non-normative sexualities may be seen as immoral because they violate these socially constructed norms.
Queer people exist across time and space, and their existence challenges traditional morality. The idea of moral truth varies from one culture to another, and this article will explore how different societies view queer existence.
In some societies, homosexuality has been widely condemned.
Before the turn of the century, many countries in Africa criminalized same-sex relationships, and LGBTQ+ people were subjected to discrimination, violence, and marginalization. These societies viewed homosexuality as unnatural and contrary to God's creation order, as expressed through biblical scripture. Some Christian leaders still preach against it today, claiming that God created man and woman for procreation and reproduction. They also argue that homosexuality goes against the biological purpose of sex, which is procreation, and so it cannot be a moral choice or lifestyle. Islamic fundamentalists believe that same-sex relationships are forbidden by Allah (God) and that those who engage in them should face severe punishments.
Some societies celebrate queer existence. Take, for instance, the Aztec Empire, where gender was fluid and varied based on individuals' desires and roles. People could identify as men and women simultaneously, and their marriage ceremonies celebrated both. In ancient Greece, pederasty (the love between an adult male and a teenage boy) was considered normal and acceptable. Even today, there are societies like San Francisco and Amsterdam that have liberal attitudes towards sexuality and intimacy, and they support the queer community with gay pride parades, queer clubs, and inclusive policies.
Despite these differences, there are similarities across cultures when it comes to morality.
Most cultures agree that rape and incest are immoral because they violate someone else's autonomy and dignity. The same is true for child abuse, murder, and other forms of violence.
Many societies recognize that everyone has the right to bodily integrity, freedom of expression, and privacy, regardless of their sexual orientation. As such, the idea of moral truth may not differ significantly from one society to another but rather depends on what moral standards are considered appropriate within each culture.
How does the idea of moral truth differ across societies that either condemn or celebrate queer existence?
Societies often vary in their attitudes towards queer individuals due to cultural norms, religious beliefs, and societal values. This can lead to different understandings of morality when it comes to sexual orientation and gender identity. Some cultures may view queerness as a sinful behavior that goes against God's will, while others might see it as a natural expression of human diversity.