Today I started talking about a game (Shadow Complex) and it's ties to a homophobic writer (Orson Scott Card). Rather, his personal views. I found quite a few articles on the subject and while the game is 'loosely' based on one of his shitty novels he did not write it. The storyline was written by a gay friendly comic writer (Peter David). The game itself has NO stance on gay rights. Homosexuality is never brought up. The story is 'loosely' based on a novel. Same universe, some of the same characters but predating the novel itself. The issue revolves around if Card will be getting royalties and therefore buying the game is supporting someone who is homophobic. So far the only article I found about him being paid is that he was given a lump sum for using the characters and that he he may or may not get money from it. It's a tough call since the guy's name is there but he had nothing directly to do with the game. So the question remains... Do we boycott everything that has something indirectly associated with people who are anti gay/racists/bigots/etc...? Do we try to silence those as they have tried to silence others? You can't demand freedom of speech if it only stands for ONE cause. It's like boycotting a bookstore that has his books. Sure, you aren't giving them your money... but you are also silencing the authors who work to support you. To enlighten those who don't know both sides. To educate those whose ignorance can be changed.

I think the good part about this debate is that it is opening up discussion about gay rights and homophobia. Positive discussion is always good. Just remember that people of opposing views work together for something completely non related. It doesn't make their views any more valid or vile... but the outcome is something that makes no statement on either side. Who loses out in the end?

**Totally swiped parts of this from a response on FB. Deal with it.

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