"Galileo, Evolution, Sexuality, and Gay & Lesbian Marriage"

Sexuality and gay & lesbian relationships probably have been with us for a few gazillian years.

Galileo, born in the 15th century, was a professor of astronomy in Italy. He was called upon to teach that the sun and planets revolved around the Earth, which seemed to make sense at the time. After all, why not be convinced that we were the center of the universe? My Mother believed that HER sons were the center of the universe.

Galileo later espoused the theories of Copernicus -- that the Earth, and all the other planets revolved around the Sun. That was not such a good idea, since the Catholic Church was not thrilled. They convicted him of heresy, and sentenced him to life in prison. Why not? If one had a series of notions concerning "the order of the universe," why not arrest anyone who differs with you.

For a couple of thousand years, a good deal of human history has been dependent upon stifling sexuality. In many cultures, the "Sexuality Police" have been out in force, wishing to control sex for themselves, and for anyone else as well. It's almost as though it is better for the system when you are not having all the sex you want to prevent others from having it as well.

Homosexual behavior has been around since the beginning as well. We have broadened the authority of the "Sexuality Police" to be responsible for stopping this "ungodly life style." They say: "Scripture proclaims that homosexuality is wrong, and I'm not going to engage in that behavior, so no one else is allowed to."

As a "scientist," I believe in unencumbered science. Should science profess that all life in the universe originated in, and evolved from Cleveland, "the church" should say "OK, but we believe that it did not happen that way, and that the bible tells us the truth" -- and leave it at that.

It is only 450 odd years since the Church imprisoned Galileo for heresy, and today they are taking the same stand on the study and teaching of evolution. They can't put people in prison for their ideas, but they do their best to use the Government to manifest their displeasure.

My favorite guys -- the Church -- are espousing what they have always espoused: no information about sexuality on television, and if they had their way not in print either. Through the Administration, and the Congress they can impose draconian fines and license revocation for violation of their obscenity regulations. SO HOW COME SEXUALITY IS OBSCENE?

Similarly, the church has spoken out politically against gay and lesbian marriage, claiming they are protecting the sanctity of traditional marriage.

I believe in our constitution, and nowhere can I find an indication of it granting the church purview over ANYTHING

Yes I know, we must protect our children. OK, if you have an issue about that, use the "V chip," that's what it is for, and leave the rest of us alone.

If you believe in creationism, good for you, and just leave the rest of us alone.

If you are a gay or a lesbian couple who wish to marry, you should be free to do so, just leave the rest of us alone.

If you are an adult, and wish to express your sexuality in a manner that's legal, you should be free to do so, just leave the rest of us alone.

Last, and certainly least, isn't 450 years long enough to hold a grudge? Has the Catholic Church ever exonerated Galileo of his "crime?" If not, they should, and just leave the rest of us alone.

Norman Horowitz

Back to Articles