2.   Sam Schulman: The essence of marriage “is to sanction and solemnize that connection of opposites which alone creates new life.”  Schulman: From this notion of marriage’s essence, it follows that same-sex marriage is not only bad but impossible. The Essentialist Argument Against Same-Sex Marriage

3.  Do you think marriages between gay and lesbian couples should or should not be recognized by the law as valid, with the same rights as traditional marriages? Should Should NotUnsure 44% 55% 1% CNN/Opinion Research Corporation Poll. Dec. 19-21, 2008. N=1,013 adults nationwide. MoE ± 3. Public Opinion: Same-Sex Marriage

4.   Jonathan Rauch: Schulman’s notion of the essence of marriage is unfounded.  Rauch: Marriage has several essential reasons for its existence, including:  producing and raising children  restraining and socializing young males  ensuring that people have reliable caregivers throughout life. Marriage should not be restricted to just one of these purposes. Responses to Schulman

5.   Drugs and Autonomy - The Harm Argument Against Drug Use  Reading Assignment - Vaughn textbook: Ch. 4 (pp. 216-233) For Next Time