Human rights can be loosely defined as those rights that are alienable from human beings because of simply being human. In the current world, human rights are comprehended as a causing divisive discourse that relates to sexuality. While sexuality may take various forms and remains largely a matter of choice, depending on one’s culture, the forms of sexuality may or may not be acceptable. This paper shall specifically tackle homosexuality as a human right. Homosexuality in essence refers to the sexual attraction an indulgence among the same sexes.
Cultural relativism impacts fundamentally on the construction and consequential reception given to homosexuality. According to Boas, civilization was not absolute but relative. This is manifested by the reception of homosexuality in the context of diverse cultural practices. It has been observed that while Western nations have been quick to accept and even placed homosexuality on statutory footings, African and Eastern nations have been hesitant and repulsive. The two extremes can best be explained by the cultural practices in the regions.
While the West is overly liberal and adventurous, Africa and the East are relatively conservative and rigid. In addition, homosexuality has received differing evaluation from cultural and human rights premises. Human rights perceive everyone as equal and entitled to a right to sexuality. In that context, the human right premise supports the Western approach which is tolerant to homosexuality. This school of thought differs substantially from the East and African nations’ approach.
Given the divisive discourse, it is my contention that one approaches the issues with a critical thought. I do firmly believe in human rights. On that regard, I support the human right approach which seeks to protect the right to sexuality. It should be noted that as much as the sexuality is exercised without interference with the rights of others, then it need to be led to prevail. Finally, I do believe a list of human right violation can be constructed and imposed to the global community. This is because of the cultural relativism and the differences in societal norms around the globe.
References
European Union. (2010). Promoting the Enjoyment of all Human Rights by Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender People. Brussels : European Union.
Pierceson, J. (2008). Courts, Liberalism, and Rights: Gay Law and Politics in the United States and Canada. New York: Temple University Press.
