Final answer:
The question concerns the argument that same-sex couples seeking legal marriage are calling for equality, not a redefinition of marriage. This is part of a larger social and legal conflict, with historical precedents and significant implications for civil rights and benefits. Legal definitions have evolved, with strides being made toward marriage equality.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stone argues that same-sex couples seeking legal marriage in the United States are not attempting to redefine marriage but are seeking inclusion within the existing framework. This debate encompasses both ideological and economic dimensions, where some view the nuclear family as the only valid form of marriage, while others believe in marriage equality for all, including gay and lesbian couples. Historically, there have been changes to what constitutes marriage, such as the legalization of interracial marriages in the 1960s. The conflict has played out legally, with the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in 1996 defining marriage federally as the union between one man and one woman and denying same-sex couples federal benefits, which has since faced constitutional challenges and changes.
Sociologically, the debate over same-sex marriage reflects differing worldviews and has significant implications for the civil, social, and economic benefits afforded to couples. Advocates for same-sex marriage argue that denying these rights constitutes sex discrimination and have worked to overturn state bans and constitutional amendments that prohibit same-sex marriage. The movement towards same-sex marriage acceptance has seen progress with states allowing such unions and the Supreme Court striking down key parts of DOMA, granting federal benefits to same-sex couples.