The ethics of genetic research on sexual orientation

Abstract

Research into the genetic component of some complex behaviours often causes controversy, depending on the social meaning and significance of the behaviour under study. Research into sexual orientation — simplistically referred to as ‘gay gene’ research — is an example of this. This research is worrisome formanyreasons, including the fact that ithas been used to harm lesbians and gay men. Many homosexual people have been forced to undergo ‘treatments’ to change their sexual orientation. Others chose to undergo them to escape discrimination and social disapprobation. But there are otherreasons to worry about such research. The very motivation for seeking an ‘origin’ of homosexuality reveals homophobia. Moreover, such research maylead to prenatal tests that claim to predict for homosexuality. For homosexual people who live in countries with no legal protection these dangers are particularly serious.