The question of whether homosexuality a blessing or a curse is indeed a subjective and controversial issue and it calls for a need for readers to think in-depth with sensibility and maturity. Homosexuality refers to sexual behaviour or attraction between people of the same sex, or to a sexual orientation. There are several biological reasons to homosexuality; research reveals that the genetic marker Xq28 on the X chromosome in human genes is associated with male homosexuality. Non-biological reasons could be the paternal protection and maternal care that contributes to the development of homosexuals. It is imperative to note that the curse, as well as blessing does not just confines to just individuals of society, but also to society as a whole – economically and socially. To add on, I would like to emphasize that it is typical of heterosexual individuals to frown upon homosexuality as curse. In fact only very few – if not none - will view homosexuality as a blessing; homosexuality does not confirm to social norms and mores.
Generally speaking, since only the minorities are homosexuals, they bound to be subjected to prejudice and discrimination, depending on how conservative the society is. For instance in Singapore, intimate acts between homosexuals are considered indecent and gross by the general public. These negative societal attitudes towards homosexuality contribute to stress and related mental disorder and even suicide. To add on, gay and lesbian youth bear an increased risk of suicide, substance abuses, school problem and isolation because of a hostile and condemning environment. Moreover discrimination can also be in a form of employment as well as housing discrimination. Hence it justifies the reason to be a curse.
Pertaining to the society as a whole, along with the increase of homosexuals, the problem of HIV escalates greatly and the health of the individuals of society is adversely affected. To support my statement, studies in the United States, Australia and Cambodia have shown that men who have sex with men are most vulnerable to HIV. Moreover, homosexuality is in synonymous with low birthrate, which can in turn be directly related to the productivity of the workforce and ultimately affects the economy and attractiveness of the country.
On the other hand homosexuality can be view as a blessing. Through the pink dollar industry, the country can generate tremendous amount of income which enhance the country’s economy. As gays are usually well-educated and take prominent managerial positions in the workforce which reflects their high income and status. Most importantly, they have no spouses and children to support, and thus have much disposable income which is the ultimate factor the pink dollar industry pivoted on.
All in all, I conclude that there is nothing in the world that can be a perfect blessing; for every advantage there will certainly be a disadvantage that comes along with it. Society taking the extreme stand of not supporting homosexuals is tantamount to throwing the baby out with the bath water. It would be ideal for societies to tolerate the disadvantages to a certain extent whilst tapping on the advantages that comes along with it.
Wee Chow
