Homosexuality And Religion

Richard Posner reflects on the changing view toward homosexuality during his lifetime (h/t the Dish).  After recognizing that homosexuality is accepted fact these days he makes an interesting point:

It seems that the only remaining basis for opposition to homosexual marriage, or to legal equality between homosexuals and heterosexuals in general, is religious. Many devout Christians, Jews, and Muslims are strongly opposed to homosexual marriage, and to homosexuality more generally. Why they are is unclear. If as appears homosexuality is innate, and therefore natural (and indeed there is homosexuality among animals), and if homosexuals are not an antisocial segment of the population, why should they be thought to be offending against God’s will? Stated differently, why has sex come to play such a large role in the Abrahamic religions? I do not know the answer. But whatever the answer, the United States is not a theocracy and should hesitate to enact laws that serve religious rather than pragmatic secular aims, such as material welfare and national security.

First off, I would assume sex has come to play such a large role in the Abrahamic religions because sex without restrictions can play such a destabilizing role in social relations.  If people are doing what feels good, lots of feelings will get hurt, and lots of violence will ensue.  As for why homosexuality is proscribed in each of the religions, I would assume it has something to do with rivalry between tribes.  I want to make sure my tribe grows faster than the other tribes so that mine can win battles.  Homosexuality doesn't give us future members to whip the other tribes.  Maybe that isn't right, but if I had to lay money on it, that's what I'd be betting.