THE NEXT GENERATION: Michael Triplett

I think Maggie is probably correct that young people are more conservative on sexual matters and I believe that bodes very well for the future. If young people can avoid the mistakes of prior generations when it comes to sexuality and poor decisionmaking, then it is an important sign. I think, however, that the evidence also bodes well for those arguing for gay rights and acceptance.

If these morally conservative and sexually traditional young people show higher acceptance of same-sex marriage and gay issues in general, it demonstrates that they understand that traditional morality can encompass gays and lesbians. They have seen a disconnect between their personal values and stigmatizing gays and gay relationships. It is likely further proof, for those who pay attention to such things, that the culture war is over and the gays have won.

The fact that young people--despite growing increasingly conservative on many other social/moral issues--support gay relationship and acceptance seems to show that the arguments of social conservatives and the family rights groups have proved hollow while the arguments of gays make a great deal more sense. Despite attempts by social conservative elites to politicize and polarize the issue, they have failed to convince the group they most need to persuade.
posted by maggie at 9:51 AM | link

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