The main sentiment on campus is in support of same-sex marriage and, as a typical UVM debate, this is usually given without any consideration for the other side of the argument. Most of the arguments that oppose same-sex marriage are religious beliefs that stamp homosexuality as immoral. This is a legitimate opinion, but not the only one. Traditionally, marriage serves three purposes: reproduction and the raising of a family, the mutual care and assistance of a couple and the taming of young men to become part of a long-lasting social commitment. Granted many of these have faded in recent decades, but a recommitment to this ideal will slow the increasing shift to social chaos, broken homes and parentless children.Vermont passed civil unions into law in 2000, giving same-sex couples in Vermont the same benefits of marriage with the exception of filing a joint income tax return. Since then, numerous other states around the country have passed similar civil union laws.On the other hand, more than 30 states have made it clear through reactive legislation that marriage in their state is available only to one man and one woman; the way marriage was designed.So what is the secular argument against same-sex marriage?The passing of a same-sex marriage law sets a dangerous precedent for other groups, such as polygamists, seeking unorthodox marriages that will bring suit against states so that they can be allowed to marry. If we allow two men and two women to marry, will this lead to four individuals being allowed to marry? Why can a Muslim man not marry a harem of brides? Why can a commune or cult leader not have 50 wives? Why can’t a brother marry a sister? Is their love not genuine?Same-sex marriage activists dismiss this argument.There is a clear mandate by the people of Vermont to the legislature. We suggest exploring all angles and making sure that, when a law is passed, the language is crystal clear to prevent misinterpretation and exploitation of the new law by marginalized groups to get access to the institution of marriage.