Reacting to the Idea of ‘Homosexual Panic’

I read with interest “The Case Against the Notion of ‘Homosexual Panic’ ” (Nov. 8). I do not think writer Kathleen Kelleher can understand the anger and disgust that a man feels when he gets a pass from a homosexual.

[Homosexual sex acts are] sickening to the ordinary man, and make no mistake about that. Make no mistake about it as well, homosexual panic is a recognized defense allowed in many courts. This is not an excuse to kill anyone, only an extenuating circumstance.

Another issue is the use of the word “homophobia.” Would Ms. Kelleher not agree that when a person recoils from the sight or smell of rot or excrement, that this is normal? It is part of our nature and is designed to help us avoid things that may make us sick. Most people will also recoil or cringe at the thought of sex with children, or pedophilia. This is a natural reaction and we would not label these people as “pedophobic,” would we? So if a man recoils at the thought of homosexual sex, then why is he labeled “homophobic”?

--JOHNNY B. MULLINS

Huntington Beach

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I, like all gay men and women, was born this way. You can imagine my surprise when a longtime heterosexual friend brought a young lady by and insisted I jump between the sheets with her and get myself “straightened out.” In a “heterosexual panic,” I thought about beating them both to death. I’m sure a jury would understand.

--WILLIAM LANCASTER DAVID

Los Angeles