The Scientific Objectivity and Universality of Gender Difference
May 23, 2016 12:00 ET

The ink on the Supreme Court's Obergefell decision was barely dry before the nation's focus was shifted from the "L" and "G" to the "T" in LGBT. Bruce Jenner's announcement that he identifies as a woman named Caitlyn came to dominate the entertainment news cycle, giving the transgendered community a place in the national spotlight. In keeping with its agenda of so-called "tolerance", the Obama administration jumped on the bandwagon, working to elevate the cause of these individuals who believe their observable, biological sex does not match their gender identity. In recent months, demand for transgender accommodation in bathrooms and locker rooms has spread swiftly, and with it has come an understandable backlash at every level. At the root of this controversy is a question: is gender difference real or is it simply a social construct? Is our gender immutable or is it simply thrust upon us at birth? Join FRC and Glenn T. Stanton as we discuss this question and its implications.

Glenn T. Stanton is the director of Global Family Formation Studies at Focus on the Family. He debates and lectures extensively on the issues of gender, sexuality, marriage and parenting at universities and churches around the world. Stanton served the George W. Bush administration for many years as a consultant on increasing fatherhood involvement in the Head Start program.

He is the co-writer of "Irreplaceable," and he is the co-author of "The Family Project," a book and small group DVD curriculum produced by Focus on the Family on the theological, anthropological and sociological significance of the essential human institution of the family. Stanton is also the author of a number of books on various aspects of marriage and families. His recent book is "Loving My (LGBT) Neighbor: Being Friends in Grace and Truth," an exploration of how Christians should interact with their LGBT neighbors. Stanton is a graduate of the University of West Florida with graduate degrees in philosophy and history. He resides in Colorado Springs with his wife and five children.

Light refreshments will be served.

Joining us in person for a lecture event:

We are looking forward to hosting you here for one of our lectures. In order for you to have the best experience possible, here are a few things you should know as you prepare to join us.

  1. Registration is required - fill out the form under "Register for this event" on the individual events page, and mark "In person" for the type of attendance.
  2. We require a photo ID for admittance.
  3. All packages and bags are subject to search upon entry to the building.
  4. We welcome an open and reasoned discussion of the social and policy topics we cover. However, your registration for our events is an agreement to conduct yourself with respect and courtesy toward our speakers and fellow attendees. FRC reserves the right to deny admission or remove from the premises anyone who conducts himself or herself in a manner which is disruptive, disrespectful, or dangerous.

By attending this event, you agree that the Family Research Council assumes no liability for injury, damage, or loss which may be related in any way to implementation of this policy. Anyone who is removed may be subject to arrest or detention by authorities for violation of this policy or the codes of the jurisdiction of the event. This policy is not designed to censor or limit free speech, but to ensure a safe environment where ideas can be freely exchanged.

Questions? Call 1-800-225-4008 and ask for the Lectures Coordinator.

Related Resources