Hey, how about this [also slightly specious] argument from the margin? Let's say that marriage is currently... not so much stigmatized... but "devalued." That is, people in general are less interested in, or less committed to, marriage than previously. The divorce rate, at least, speaks to a lack of commitment. One could argue that the valiant struggle of gays (who live on the margin) to achieve marriage equality might actually encourage people to "re-value" marriage. Hey, if gays want it so much, then it must be worth something, right? One could also suggest that the long-term commitment of gay couples, living in monogamous, mutually-supporting relationships for years and even decades without the support of society, speaks to the strength and importance of pair bonds. This might also have the effect of re-valuing the bond of marriage.Originally posted by SugarPlum
Now, I can't say I'm convinced of either the premises or the conclusions of this argument. As a mental exercise, though, it shows you can hand wave all sorts of cause-and-effect speculation about the impact of gay marriage. Huh, maybe I'll send this out as a glurge email... hmm...