But in the real world, there are always more variables. I like to call this perspective wisdom. Sullivan and Rauch concentrate on this kind of conservatism, mostly out of necessity. Sullivan expressly rejects the notion that marriage has an immutable form. And it would be impossible to get a divorce.
Opponents are fond of pointing out that marriage is about children.
Proponents like Sullivan are quick to respond that all sorts of men and women are allowed to get married even though they have no intention or ability to have children. Sullivan is of course right. Marriage has changed over time. But it has always been about men and women. When you strip away the side arguments and quibbles, major and minor, this is where the divide on the issue of gay marriage is for the public-policy types.