Homosexuality and the Human Genome Project Private and Public Choices

• Published in: Journal of homosexuality Vol. 37; no. 1; pp. 25 - 51
• Main Author: Gabard, Donald L.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Taylor & Francis Group 01.01.1999; Haworth Press; Taylor & Francis LLC
• Subjects: Bioethics; Choice Behavior; Decision making; ethics; Ethics, Medical; Gay and lesbian studies; Gays & lesbians; Genetic counseling; Genetic engineering; Genetic factors; Genetics; genome; Genomics; Homosexuality; Homosexuality - genetics; Human Genome Project; Humans; Medical ethics; Medical Research; Research Ethics; Scientific Research; Sexual orientation; Social policy; Social values; United States
• ISSN: 0091-8369; 1540-3602
• DOI: 10.1300/J082v37n01_03

Recent scientific research which offers evidence of genetic and biologic influence in homosexuality has created serious concerns. The intent of this article is to offer suggestions based in principles of bioethics in which perceived negative outcomes may be diminished and the positive qualities of the research enhanced. For a portion of the general population the concerns expressed in this article could be alleviated through public discussion and exposure to the findings and theories of the academic and scientific communities. For another portion of the population, however, additional safeguards against misuse of screening tests and somatic cell interventions may be advisable through efforts initiated by researchers themselves, general public policies, and additional medical policies. While these efforts are recommended as short term goals for the separate scientific and social paradigms of homosexuality, it is proposed that an equally important and related debate involves the subjects of disease, normality and the value of diversity. It is suggested that while it is imperative that the behavioral and biological sciences recognize the limitations of their separate approaches, the reductionist approach itself limits our understanding of what essentially are questions of attraction and relationships. In conclusion, homosexuality should be understood from the perspective of autonomy as every person's right to experience a full and meaningful life.