The genetics of homosexuality - the physical component?

A while back, someone asked a question about a theorist that presents research that suggests that there are physical indicators for homosexuality.

Most people were appalled by this idea. I commented with what I knew (which supports the theory), and must have had about 20 thumbs down.

I understand the fear - of stereotyping gay people, or of picking on people with physical "markers."

This book was written by a happy "out" gay scientist. What interest would he have in demeaning gays?

And what makes it so implausible? Most Asian people have straight black hair. Is saying so racist? No. Are ALL people with straight black hair Asian? No. And anyone with the most basic understanding of life knows that.

So, what is bigotted about suggesting that a genetic trait (homosexuality) might have physical markers? Genes don't act alone; they are all connected. Our minds are not seperate entities from our bodies.

So what about this theory makes you uncomfortable?

The genetics of homosexuality - the physical component?

Human genetics is quite complicated, and research is still on about the genetics of homosexuality. So far, pointers indicate that genes do play a part, but scientists have yet to isolate that "one single gene" that determines homosexuality exclusively. From what can be gathered through the studied genetic theories, it is not usually one single gene that determines a person's physical/mental makeup. It is through multiple genes interacting with each other we get our individualities.

Since "causes" for homosexuality are still being studied, I am not really uncomfortable with whatever results they come up with yet. I know for a fact that I knew I was gay for as long as I remember. Through experience I realized it was something I could not wish away, or even try to change.

The genetics of homosexuality - the physical component?

I just don't think anyone should be "grouped" based upon their physical features. Every human is equal, and the only real differences are our physical features. People focus way to much on the physical aspect of humans. And it is the cause of a lot of hatred.

The genetics of homosexuality - the physical component?

Blessed are the clear-thinking among us.

The genetics of homosexuality - the physical component?

I've heard about the theoretical genetic marker about the ring finger being longer than the index finger in homosexuals. . . and I'm not at all uncomfortable with these theories and don't find them bigoted.

Kinsey found homosexual men as a group to have larger penises than heterosexuals. That would explain a lot ;)

The genetics of homosexuality - the physical component?

I just think some people will use this as a tool to discriminate against people even more.

The genetics of homosexuality - the physical component?

to much to read, but i think being gay does have something to do with genetics

The genetics of homosexuality - the physical component?

Are you going to go around with a testing kit to see if everyone you "think" is gay, is gay. There aren't any characteristics that ties every homosexual individual together without stereotyping, or generalizing them. I have a group of friends, who are lesbian, gay, bi, and straight.. and when we're all together you can't tell who is WHO...without asking, or assuming.

The genetics of homosexuality - the physical component?

I once read that all males at some point in their lives have a "feeling" toward another male or males, but some feel it more intensely.

The genetics of homosexuality - the physical component?

Hog wash! Homosexuality/lesbianism is a choice. It is not a genetic problem. It is a sins problem. The Holy Bible says so in Romans chapter 1. Read it and learn.

The genetics of homosexuality - the physical component?

We can't really have it both ways. We can't say "we are born this way" and then condemn research to find out why. I think the fear of Eugenics is always with us: that somehow we will be "bred out" of the gene pool..frankly I think that's just human arrogance.

The genetics of homosexuality - the physical component?

There probably are physical markers -- I don't have a problem with recognizing the possibility. My only problem comes when that recognition of markers becomes stereotyping, or is used to "segregate" children.

Regards,

Reyn

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