In this provocative new work, R. Claire Snyder argues that the fundamental principles of American democracy not only allow but require the legalization of same-sex marriage. In addition to explaining the theoretical issues at stake, the book provides a short history of marriage, disentangling its interpersonal, communal, religious and civil components. In clear and concise language, Snyder examines and systematically addresses numerous critiques of same-sex marriage, including religious conservatism, traditionalism, the organized movement of the Christian Right, communitarianism, and academic "queer theory." By exploring the arguments swirling around this controversial topic from the perspective of democratic theory, Gay Marriage and Democracy shows that all citizens must be treated equally for democracy to truly succeed.

"In presenting her own argument concisely, the author neatly synthesizes a wide swath of legal and theoretical literature in building her case ans in answering critics in the communitarian, religious conservative, and queer libertation schools of thought. . . . this well-written text enhances both introductory and more advanced conversations about and issue that seems certain to remain front and center in American political debates through the first decade of the century. Highly recommended." - CHOICE

"As a book that hopes to 'convince the read that the fundamental principles of American Democracy not only allow but also require the legislation of same-sex marriage,' Claire Snyder's Gay Marriage and Democracy archives its purpose well. By the end, I found myself convinced of the central argument through her thorough use of evidence, deep citation, and varied examples. One of the greatest achievements of this book is the multi-angled approach it takes to scholarship….Snyder makes compelling and relevant arguments for her central goal, and thus Gay Marriage and Democracy stands as a good resource for anyone engaging academic debates on democracy, rights, or same-sex marriage." - Rhetoric & Public Affairs