Proposition and Marriage, Essay Example

In the below comparative critical analysis, the authors would like to review two different articles about marriage and proposition: 8 Is Not Hate: The Meaning of a Proposition (Morse, 2008) and Prop 8 Hurt My Family – Ask Me How (Marriage Equality, 2009). While the two articles are both discussing the same debate, they have a completely different approach. The comparative analysis is going to reveal the similarities, views and assumptions of the articles to investigate the links between them.

Frame of Reference

Both articles discuss the effects of the debate about Proposition 8 on the society from a different angle. Morse seems to be pointing fingers on anti-Prop 8 groups and brings up some examples. Likewise, Marriage Equality does show examples, but the paper is more detailed, referenced and statistically backed up. Overall, after reading the two articles, it is evident that there is a heated argument in the society, often resulting in verbal or physical violence, and both authors are doing their best to convince the reader that it is the other party’s responsibility. Interestingly, none of the articles mention the involvement of the group they support. In the critical comparative analysis, the methods of rhetoric writing and reasoning will be examined, as well as the believability and claims of the articles. The standing point of the two authors will also be examined.

Morse’s Standing Point

Morse (2008) claims that people campaigning for Proposition 8 are not haters. She states that religious reasons and conservative views about marriage are behind the campaign, and it has nothing to do with homophobia or hatred. Still, it is interesting to see her state: “I’m voting “yes” on 8, not because of my views of gays and lesbians, but because of my views about marriage.” (Morse, 2008). However, when looking at the problem from the religious and ethical point of view, the “live and let live” thesis does not seem to fit into the philosophy of the campaign. Aggression against gay couples is certainly not ethical, approved by the teachings of the Bible or even an effective way of handling an argument. When looking at the actions of Jesus (no gay people mentioned, but prostitutes are), he never judged anyone, unlike those who think Proposition 8 is a good idea and they have the right to tell who can make a good family, based on traditions.

Morse’s Rhetoric Methods

Morse is claiming that she supports a violence-free campaign, wants a solution, still she does not explain what the effects of breaking up families with teenage children would affect the society, finances of couples and the life of those involved. After the approval of gay marriages, it is hard to “turn back time” without causing a lot of pain. She also argues that small children should not be taught about homosexuality. She, however, does not explain how much better it is if they face the existence of gays later on in life not knowing how to handle it. She does not provide reasons why gay people cannot create a loving family atmosphere the same way traditional couples can, and this is the major deficiency of the article.

Marriage Equality’s Standing Point

Marriage Equality focuses more about the violence and effects of the debate on the society. He uses plenty of examples and quotes of self-reports. The main outcome of the argument – which is carefully built up – is that the campaign for Proposition 8 causes the surge of homophobia, violence, hatred and creates emotional strain, despair and stress for those involved. Unlike Morse, he claims that those campaigning for Proposition 8 are indeed hating gay people and the whole activism is created to provide the society with the right “scapegoats” to be angry with. According to the author, there are no reports that gay marriages negatively effect the rights of traditional-view people, while it is not true vice versa. The right of same sex couples to legalize their relationships, form a family or adapt children would be affected by the decision of the court. The article suggests that the debate is not really about the law; more like a homophobic movement in the society aiming to exclude LGBTI individuals from the society.

Marriage Equality’s Rhetoric Methods

The author provides a detailed report of the effects of violence, statistics and statements of LGBTI individuals who suffered from discrimination, violence and even hate crimes. The report seems to confirm the initial statement that the debate is indeed about hatred and not the legislation. The article is arranged in different chapters investigating the psychological effects of the campaign on couples, LGBTI individuals, children and those against Prop 8. Overall, it is evident that the article is more convincing than Morse’s and is backed up by relevant research.

Conclusion and Comparison of Ideology

While Morse claims that Proposition 8 is not about hate and discrimination, she fails to provide evidence to this statement. On the other hand, the Marriage Equality article provides a detailed study, research and statistics to prove the opposite. Therefore, comparing the two articles it is evident that the latter is more convincing and better organized, resulting in a more successful way to influence the audience.

References:

Morse, J, R. (2008) 8 Is Not Hate: The Meaning of a Proposition. National Review Online. November 1, 2008 <http://www.nationalreview.com/articles/226171/8-not-hate/jennifer -roback-morse>

Marriage Equality (2009) Prop 8 Hurt My Family – Ask Me How. Online. <http://www.marriageequality.org/uploads/REPORT%20TWO_PROP_8_HURT_MY_FAMILY_FINAL_VERSION.pdf>