| Abstract: | T]here had been theories that homosexuality might have a genetic basis. In June this year, these theories received a somewhat firmer basis. Researchers at the United States National Cancer Institute reported new evidence which suggests that some gay men may have a genetic predisposition to homosexuality. The research team led by molecular biologist Dean Hamer tested 40 pairs of homosexual brothers and found that 33 of the pairs shared genetic markers on a particular area of the X chromosome (called Xq28), indicating a link between homosexuality and a gene in that area. If followed-up research were to confirm the findings, then, it has been claimed, this would be the first example of a behavioral trait that has been found to have a genetic basis. The study does, however, leave some central questions unanswered. Some revolve around the link between genetics and the nature of sexuality itself. The others concern the ethical and social implications of the research.... |
