In this module, we explore how sexual identity impacts the nature of  friendship for all of us. With the legalization of gay marriages and  rise of alternative unions, as well as the sociocultural prevalence of  much wider acceptance of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer  identity definitions in society, we are witnessing expanded definitions,  beliefs, and values regarding sexual self-identity and the dynamics of  friendship.

Philosopher Michael Foucault argues that we have an opportunity to  expand our understanding of friendship, beyond the state of the current  realm, where our connections remain quite limited: “Society and the  institutions which frame it have limited the possibility of  relationships (to marriage) because a rich, relational world would be  very complex to manage” (p. 207). 

 Vernon, M. (2010). The Meaning of Friendship. New York, NY: Palgrave Macmillan. Chapter 6: Politics of Friendship. 

In this week’s reading material, the following philosophers discuss  their views on this topic: Simone de Beauvoir, Thomas Aquinas,  MacIntyre, Friedman, Hunt, and Foucault. Make sure to incorporate their  views as you answer each discussion question. Think about how their  views may be similar or different from your own. Your initial post  should be at least 350 words and must provide a minimum of one cited  reference in APA style.

Please answer one of the following:

1. How do you perceive changes in social stereotypes, issues, and  judgments regarding sexualities as potentially impacting changes in  friendship, in the relationships, cultural expressions, and  understandings of friendships?
2. Do you think that the social expansion of acceptance of “LGBTQ”  identities and relationships has an impact upon the dynamics of  friendship generally in the society? 
3. Do you think that this has changed your own perspective?