| Virtually Normal | |
|---|---|
| Author(s) | Andrew Sullivan |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genre(s) | nonfiction |
| Publication date | 1995 |
Virtually Normal: An Argument About Homosexuality is a 1995 book by Andrew Sullivan.
Contents |
The book presents the reader with four groups of citizens who view homosexuality in a specific manner within American society, criticizing the arguments. The Prohibitionists comprise Thomas Aquinas and strict followers of the Bible. The Liberationists are epitomised by Michel Foucault and Queer Nation. Conservatives believe that homosexuality should remain silent and not encouraged; further, social change will come with time, just as it has for other minorities. The Liberals are said to limit the freedom of some to give rights to others; Sullivan also adds that anti-discrimination laws are reifying. Finally, Sullivan concludes on gay marriage, arguing that it would be a good thing as it would be both a humanising and traditionalising effort.
Although praised by The New York Times, the book was dismissed by The Journal of Homosexuality[1].
Michael Warner's 1999 book The Trouble With Normal has been characterized as a direct response to Virtually Normal.[2]