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Christian Apologetics and Homosexuality: Definitions
- A gay or lesbian
- A person whose sexual identity, behavior, and attractions are for a
member of the same sex. The word "identity" suggests that this is an
adult designation. I use "gay" as a noun freely because being gay
includes affirming the identity.
- Homosexuality
- Sexual attraction for a member of the same sex. The word "attraction"
suggests that a person may experience homosexuality without ever acting
on it. I have systematically avoided the use of the word "homosexual" as
a noun because the noun has too many different meanings based on who is
using it.
- Heterosexist
- Favoring heterosexuality over homosexuality. The term is usually used in
a derogatory fashion, devaluing those who privilege heterosexuality over
homosexuality.
- Homophobic
- Fearing homosexuality, possibly with a fear not faced and hence
internalized. The term is often used interchangeably with "heterosexist."
That is, the assumption is made that those who favor heterosexuality
automatically must be afraid of homosexuality.
- Orientation
- I avoid as much as possible the word "orientation" because it has come
to mean an unchanging state of being. Inversely, I avoid the word
"preference," because it has come to mean conscious choice. I use other
words that are less loaded: "attraction," "disposition," "inclination,"
or "tendency."
21 August 1996