13th May 2005, 1:44 PM
I agree that, genetically, it really makes no sense for homosexuality to be an inherited trait. Along with being counter-intuitive with nature itself, it also opens the door to the possibility of a whole slew of endless possible sexual fetishes being genetic, and that's something I simply doubt. If homosexuality is hereditary, is pedophilia? What about fecalphilia? Necrophilia? What about something small, like foot fetishism, or domination/submission? Where do you draw the line?
Admittedly, at this point, I don't think anyone can say for certain whether homosexuality is genetic. I do believe, however, that it isn't a conscious choice. Yes, the homosexual lifestyle is a choice. A humongous flamer has the choice of whether to stroll outside in a complete 3-piece suit of magenta and a top-hat and walking cane with a wooden penis on the end of its handle. That much is obvious. On the other hand, I doubt that homosexuals can, essentially, "turn off" their attraction towards other men, and likewise "turn on" an attraction towards women. I think if that were the case, there'd be more proof. There would be more solid scientific and anecdotal evidence of homosexuals transforming their sexual orientation, which still has yet to present itself.
If I had to guess, I would say that these sexual fetishes (including something in extreme contrast to the norm, like homosexuality) are learned. When I say that, I don't mean that a mother and father can sit down and teach a child to be gay or straight. I mean that during the first 6-8 years of a child's life, there could be unknown factors that cause sexual deviancies. I'm no expert in psychology, but it doesn't take an expert to point out that sexual impulses play a large role in a person's life. It's a primal urge that's necessary for perpetuating our species. I think it's possible for that instinct to somehow deviate based on what a child has observed or experienced in those early years of his/her life.
Ahh, if only a masters/phd in psychology weren't so expensive... I'd love to study the subject. :)
Admittedly, at this point, I don't think anyone can say for certain whether homosexuality is genetic. I do believe, however, that it isn't a conscious choice. Yes, the homosexual lifestyle is a choice. A humongous flamer has the choice of whether to stroll outside in a complete 3-piece suit of magenta and a top-hat and walking cane with a wooden penis on the end of its handle. That much is obvious. On the other hand, I doubt that homosexuals can, essentially, "turn off" their attraction towards other men, and likewise "turn on" an attraction towards women. I think if that were the case, there'd be more proof. There would be more solid scientific and anecdotal evidence of homosexuals transforming their sexual orientation, which still has yet to present itself.
If I had to guess, I would say that these sexual fetishes (including something in extreme contrast to the norm, like homosexuality) are learned. When I say that, I don't mean that a mother and father can sit down and teach a child to be gay or straight. I mean that during the first 6-8 years of a child's life, there could be unknown factors that cause sexual deviancies. I'm no expert in psychology, but it doesn't take an expert to point out that sexual impulses play a large role in a person's life. It's a primal urge that's necessary for perpetuating our species. I think it's possible for that instinct to somehow deviate based on what a child has observed or experienced in those early years of his/her life.
Ahh, if only a masters/phd in psychology weren't so expensive... I'd love to study the subject. :)