What is a good definition of homophobia? We hear a lot about homophobia. Is every person who is uncomfortable with homosexuality homophobic? Can a person who is not against gay marriage be homophobic? Is it always used correctly?

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Here is the Meriman-Webster Online Dictionary's definition of homophobia: irrational fear of, aversion to, or discrimination against homosexuality or homosexuals.

According to this definition then people who are uncomfortable with homosexuality would probably be mildly homophobic. Yes, a person can be homophobic and not necessarily against gay marriage. I know several people who are that way. And no, I'm sure it's not always used correctly.

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I concur with each and everyone of Maggie's points.

J

Can converse of that can be true? Can one oppose gay marriage and not be homophobic?

Personally, my own attitude towards homosexuality is along the lines of what the late novelist John Buchan once said, when asked why his novels didn't contain any sex: "What my characters do in the privacy of their bedrooms is no one's business but their own."

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Good answer, Maggie! Bahai-Sojourner, I do believe the converse is possible. People have beliefs in gradations, just as our emotions are...many combinations exist. Someone in your proposed situation may have the belief about marriage on a more political, even taxation level or some other reason behind it. Homophobia, as well as feeling about the state of marriage laws, have emotional, political and religious components. These don't always fit into one mold, even in one individual.

Agreed. I agree with all the above.

Love is not gender specific..what ever type of love it is.

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Snowman1 Men are the same as women, just inside out !Snowman1

and these are mine, mine mine mine ...oh...and wifeys too !

Love transcends all things physical
Marriage is love
Gender is physical
Therefore Marriage transcends Gender.

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The opposite is also true. A person could be against gay "marriage", but not be homophobic, provided that they supported an equivalent union. But yes, I do believe that the term is often misused.