The Ethics of Genetic Research on Sexual Orientation

Hastings Center Report, Vol. 27, No. 3, pp. 6-13, 1997

9 Pages Posted: 16 Jul 2010

See all articles by Udo Schuklenk

Udo Schuklenk

Department of Philosophy; affiliation not provided to SSRN

Edward Stein

Yeshiva University - Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law

Jacinta Kerin

Independent

William Byne

Independent

Date Written: July 15, 1997

Abstract

Research into the genetic component of some complex behaviors often causes controversy, depending on the social meaning and significance of the behavior under study. Research into sexual orientation-simplistically referred to as "gay gene" research-is an example of research that provokes intense controversy. This research is worrisome for many reasons, including the fact that it has 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 other reasons to worry about such research. The very motivation for seeking an "origin" of homosexuality reveals homophobia. Moreover, such research may lead to prenatal tests that claim to predict for homosexuality. For homosexual people who live in countries with no legal protections these dangers are particularly serious.

Keywords: homosexuality, origin, ethics, sexual orientation, genetics

Suggested Citation

Schuklenk, Udo and Schuklenk, Udo and Stein, Edward and Kerin, Jacinta and Byne, William, The Ethics of Genetic Research on Sexual Orientation (July 15, 1997). Hastings Center Report, Vol. 27, No. 3, pp. 6-13, 1997, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1640688

Udo Schuklenk (Contact Author)

Department of Philosophy ( email )

Kingston, Ontario K7L 3N6
Canada

affiliation not provided to SSRN

Edward Stein

Yeshiva University - Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law ( email )

55 Fifth Ave.
New York, NY 10003
United States
212-790-0269 (Phone)
212-790-0205 (Fax)

Jacinta Kerin

Independent

United States

William Byne

Independent

United States

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