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In English-speaking countries, the connection between…

“In English-speaking countries, the connection between heresy and homosexuality is expressed through the use of a single word to denote both concepts: buggery. ... Webster's Unabridged Dictionary (Third Edition) defines "buggery" as "heresy, sodomy.” quote by Thomas Szasz
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“In English-speaking countries, the connection between heresy and homosexuality is expressed through the use of a single word to denote both concepts: buggery. ... Webster's Unabridged Dictionary (Third Edition) defines "buggery" as "heresy, sodomy.”

Thomas Szasz

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The term links religious dissent with sexual deviance, reflecting historical moral judgments.

In simple terms: Heresy and homosexuality were once conflated.

Key Takeaway

Recognize how language can stigmatize.

Themes

language stigma history religion sexuality

Mood

critical reflective

Type

analytical educational

When to use this quote

  • historical analysis
  • social policy
  • education
  • advocacy

Key Concepts

social construction moral panic lexical semantics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does language shape moral judgments?
  • Can we separate word meaning from prejudice?
A Different Perspective

The link is culturally specific and not universal.

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