Throughout history, homosexuality and those perceived to be homosexual has been the center of condemnation, ridicule and hatred. Many of society; priests, teachers, celebrities and even family members were and continue to be homophobic. But where does this fear and hatred of homosexuality begin? Hip-Hop artist Nas, best describes natural human nature of hatred and violent behavior from his song "Hate Me Now", when he raps "...Hate what they don't understand, fear what they can't conquer". In the past this was exactly the situation with homosexuality. Society's misconception was so far-stretched that even medical professionals considered homosexuality a mental disorder. The American Psychiatrists Association included homosexuality on their DSM (their list of pathological diagnosis), though later it was removed. Homophobia was widespread in mainstream society in the past, but as a result of the ignorant and misinformed, it still exists today.
             In all honesty, my epistemology of homosexuality was somewhat similar to that of the mainstream, but not as ignorant. As a heterosexual male, I grew up only with a knowledge of sexual, emotional and affectional attraction to that of opposite sex, in my situation of that to a female. I never resented gay's or bashed them. I respected the idea that their sexual orientation was to that of a member of their own gender, I just did not want to be caught in the middle of it. I would have to say that I was slightly homophobic but not as severe as society. I had such beliefs because I was not educated on homosexuality, nor had any exposure to it except from its portrayal from the media and everyday society. When homosexuality came to mind, I thought of gay men being feminine, holding hands being merry, and lesbians being extremely masculine and "butch" females. On the other hand, I was not radical in my beliefs to that of society, because I accepted it ...