Belmont University Research Symposium (BURS)

The Gay Agenda: How the Gay Issue Stopped being an Issue

Publication Date

Spring 3-29-2024

College

Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, College of

Department

Political Science, Department of

BURS Faculty Advisor

Nathan Griffith

Presentation Type

Oral Presentation

Abstract

This study examines the rapid shift in public opinion on the issue of gay marriage in recent times. The research question explores why public support for gay marriage has changed so quickly. This affects millions of Americans on both personal and political levels. The main thesis posits that corporations have likely played a major role in this societal shift, as growing awareness and acceptance of LGBTQ+ people has led corporations to increasingly align their support with evolving social values and the expanding LGBTQ+ consumer base. Two hypotheses are proposed: 1) Corporate support has reinforced and accelerated the change in public opinion, and 2) Corporations have reacted to and capitalized on the independent societal shift towards greater LGBTQ+ acceptance, rather than driving it. The methodology involves a case study approach, utilizing survey data from Pew Research Center, Gallup, and other sources to conduct statistical analysis through linear regression. Potential limitations include multicollinearity and personal bias. The results indicate a strong correlation between corporate-backed LGBTQ+ representation in media/pop culture and the rise in public support for gay marriage. These findings suggest the need for further research on the influence of corporations on societal norms, laws, and the political landscape. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between corporate interests, social values, and the rapid transformation of public opinion on the issue of gay marriage in the United States.

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