A self-congratulatory apparatus having a simulated human hand carried on a pivoting arm suspended form shoulder supported member. The hand is manually swingable into and out of contact with the user's back to give an amusing or an important pat-on-the-back. (Abstract of U.S. patent 4,608,967 issued on September 2, 1986 http://worldwide.espacenet.com/publicationDetails/biblio?FT=D&CC=US&NR=4608967A)

The disease known as sideration entirely depends upon the heavens; and hence we may class under this head, the ill effects produced by hail-storms, carbunculation, and the damage caused by hoar-frosts.

But in more recent queer theory, the positivist projects committed to restoring the gay subject to history and redeeming the gay self from its pathologization have been recognized as part of a process of homonormalization.

Such a discussion deserves rationality, not emotional gut reactions.