Atheist Professor rationalizes incest

[NoraBrimstone]

I don't see what the problem is as long as they use contraception. I personally think it's gross and would never partake in incestuous activities; but at the same time, it doesn't harm anyone and what two consenting adults do behind closed doors is none of my business. If it happened in my own circle of friends or family, I'd be grossed out, but I'd get over it.

[The Grand Nudger]

Oh man, there was a great sci fi pic with Liam Neeson in the starring role (iirc) about incest - but removed from familial ties by invoking population density and genetics. Brilliant, because that removed the "ick" factor...and you really felt like it was a love story (which it was) somebody help me remember the name

(ah sci-fi, why you haunt me so)

[Tiberius]

Bullshit. A child cannot consent according to the law anyway, so there would be no such problems. A parent who has sex with a child under the age of consent would still be arrested for child abuse, even if incestuous relationships were allowed.

I am talking about 14 - 17 year olds..........................

BREAKING NEWS: Even when you grow up to be an adult, you are still your mothers child.

The age of consent in the UK is 16, so the 14-15 year olds would still be covered. If a 16/17 year old wants to have sex with someone much older, they are able unless that person is in a position of trust (i.e. a teacher, but this would likely apply to parents / family members too).

Yes, even when we grow up we're still our mother's child, but since we are grown up, we are held to be responsible in the eyes of the law. I don't see any reason to deny incestuous relationships as long as they follow current laws regarding consent.

[FlyingNarwhal]

I honestly don't care if they use protection. They can do whatever they want, be it between two consenting adults.

[ideologue08]

You can rationalize pretty much anything though, that's why rationale is not a good source of moral conduct.

[Something completely different]

You can rationalize pretty much anything though, that's why rationale is not a good source of moral conduct.

I disagree, but would like to read what you propose as an alternative.

[Sal]

Oh man, there was a great sci fi pic with Liam Neeson in the starring role (iirc) about incest - but removed from familial ties by invoking population density and genetics. Brilliant, because that removed the "ick" factor...and you really felt like it was a love story (which it was) somebody help me remember the name

(ah sci-fi, why you haunt me so)

Sure it wasn't Tim Robbins in Code 46?
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0345061/

[Faith No More]

You can rationalize pretty much anything though, that's why rationale is not a good source of moral conduct.

No, what is not a good source of moral conduct is determining what is right and wrong based on what you find disgusting.

[The Grand Nudger]

You're right, you're right, it was. Wonder how the two got mixed up in my mind? Thank you Sal.

[Fruity]

If they're not hurting anybody, it's not my business. People think incest and automatically think rape or molestation. Two different things entirely. They can be combined, but that is not always the case. I wouldn't do it, it's not my cup of tea, but then again some of my sexual practices aren't other people's cup of tea. So what? Enjoy, I say.

And to creationists out there who disagree... we're all brothers and sisters. How do you like that?