Why does homophobia still exist?

Answer 1

Strictly speaking, a "phobia" is irrational -- it doesn't need a reason. That said,

homophobia exists for a lot of reasons. The first is most obviously, religion. Though many religious believers are open to homosexuality and bisexuality, most people who consider themselves religious people are close-minded. Unfortunately, that old saying about empty barrels making the most noise is still true.

Of course, not all homophobes are religious. Some are taught to hate gays by their families and simply have it drilled deep in their memories.

This is also related to homophobia in the media and pop culture. Many people might not even notice homophobic slurs in media. But they are almost always there. This subconsciously gives a viewer or listener the idea that being anything other than straight is wrong, embarrassing or otherwise worthy of hatred or ridicule.

These messages can be sent out as casually as having two male characters not want to hug, or make fun of one another if they see the other naked in a locker room or washroom setting.

These messages are probably the largest reason that homophobia still exists in our society.

I take heart from an observation made many years ago by a columnist whose name I've forgotten: the closer we get to eliminating something like racism or homophobia, the louder the battle becomes and the more desperate -- and irrational -- the forces of hatred become.