I am concerned that Amber Morris has found yet another forum for her self-righteous views ("Same-sex parenting, lack of scientific support dangerous to children" SN 7/27). What is her beef with gays and lesbians? If Morris sees a society with flawed marriages and poorly-raised children, maybe she ought to take a look at the real causes of these problems instead of blaming an entire segment of the population.

In her column, Morris attempted to invalidate study after study that have revealed children of same-sex parents are at no disadvantage compared to their peers with opposite-sex parents. In terms of evaluating research, I would have to side with the experts such as the American Psychological Association and the American Medical Association, who are in favor of same-sex marriage and adoption. My hunch is they did not lightly accept a stance on children's welfare and homosexuals in general without first consulting and scrutinizing much available research.

One would have to believe that children benefit from a loving environment, whether that be provided in the form of two parents or one, same-sex parents or a more "nuclear" family. Last time I checked, straight people didn't have a monopoly on love and affection.

Perhaps the real root of Morris' issues is her fear of the unknown. Maybe if, instead of demonizing gays and lesbians, Morris took the time to get to know a few, she'd realize we're all just people after all.

Brian McGrain
1998 MSU graduate