In other work I have argued that decisions about what to teach directively and what non-directively should be governed by an epistemic criterion. Trevor Cooling has recently advanced some objections to my defence and application of the epistemic criterion and proposed an alternative to it. Here I reply to his objections and comment on his proposed…

Several unearned benefits attending straight privilege are listed, prefaced by two main arguments. First, it is argued that the rampant heterosexism in the U.S. is largely attributable to many Americans' framing of heterosexism as a matter of religious freedom rather than as a form of bigotry. It is further argued that educators' elimination of…

Social work strives to be inclusive of all cultural groups and religious identities. However, a tension exists in the profession between freedom of religious expression and full acceptance of lesbian, gay, and bisexual people. David Hodge and others claim social work is oppressive to evangelical Christians. This article critiques primarily Hodge's…

Many critics hailed the new film, "Four Lions," by director Chris Morris as "provocative, incendiary, audacious, and shocking" and "one of the funniest and boldest comedies of the year." As a satirist, Morris already established his wit signature with the production of the mockumentary series, "Brass Eye." Using the same absurdist approach, he…

This autobiographical essay of a Chinese transgender who has grown up in a special social background involves the Chinese family, religion, and some social background to demonstrate the current situation of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender groups, especially the condition of female-to-male transgender.

Philosophers of education disagree on how the question of the moral status of homosexual acts should be tackled in the classroom. Some argue that the question should be taught as a controversial issue, that we should present rival moral positions as even-handedly as possible; others maintain that we should actively promote the view that homosexual…

In their introductory article, Morrow and Beckstead (2004 [this issue]) discuss the decades-long controversy surrounding therapeutic attempts to change homosexual to heterosexual orientation ("conversion" or "reparative" therapy). Despite the efforts to resolve this controversy, it shows no signs of abating. The articles in this issue, especially…

It has been fascinating to read and reflect on this set of articles, and it is my belief that the counseling field will be strengthened as a result of this major contribution. Morrow and Beckstead's (2004 [this issue]) introductory article offers a balanced overview of the history related to conversion therapy and highlights recent research and…

The ideological interface between Muslims and liberal educators undoubtedly is strained in the realm of sex education, and perhaps on no topic more so than homosexuality. Mark Halstead argues that schools should not try to "undermine the faith" of Muslims, who object to teaching homosexuality as an "acceptable alternative lifestyle." In this…

The college administrators, who push homosexual rights so vigorously, are confused. They routinely flout the law, abandoning any pretense of neutrality, by censuring organizations that do not embrace gays into their midst. Again and again they punish or expel individuals for whom certain behaviors remain perverse or sinful. David French represents…

Discusses the need to provide appropriate materials in school libraries that offer support to gay and lesbian teens. Topics addressed include the presentation of role models, in fiction as well as in biographies; religious diversity; confidentiality of circulation records; and censorship issues. (LRW)

Argues that for a true moral democratic education teachers must learn to address homosexuality in elementary and secondary education using methods that focus on moral democratic stands (MDS) as opposed to moralistic positions. Explains that MDS is essential because it includes recognition of homosexuality and non-oppression simultaneously. (CMK)

"Gay Rights Coalition v. Georgetown University," with its emphasis on social scientific evidence, may be precedent-setting. The case involves not only a university, a religion, and a religious doctrine, but also a protected class that is just emerging as an object of public policy. (MLW)

Discusses issues related to homosexuality through the personal reflections of a gay man. Highlights include family, personal, and employer and employee relationships; gays and lesbians in the military; concern over AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome); public support for gay and lesbian rights; and the relevance of these issues for…

North Americans' fear and preoccupation with safety and security as a result of the September 11 attacks is similar to that felt by gays and lesbians in daily life. Queer persons are not part of the Christian family, according to Jerry Falwell and other rightist Christian fundamentalists, including those involved in transformative ministry and…