I thought it would be interesting to examine what science tells us about sexual orientation and its determinants. In some ways its a nature vs nurture discussion. We need to consider biological factors such as genetics and prenatal development along with environmental factors such as upbringing and culture.
Its an area that’s highly controversial in many circles. Attitudes about homosexuality have been identified as being a complete or significant block to engaging with Christianity for 47% of New Zealanders in a recent study of over 1000 participants.
https://nzfaithandbeliefstudy.files.wordpress.com/2018/05/faith-and-belief-full-report-may-2018.pdf
The figures are less for people over 65 years of age but between 40-50% of those under 65 years. Regardless attitudes about homosexuality are the largest identifiable block amongst the 1000+ people surveyed.
There are a number of faiths where homosexual behaviour or particular acts are seen as immoral or a sin. They include Catholicism, conservative Christianity, Islam, the Baha’i Faith and some branches of Judaism, Hinduism and Buddhism and no doubt many other faith traditions as well. The other side of the coin is increasing numbers of faiths that are LBGTQ+ affirming.
So what does science tell us about the determinants of homosexuality with reference to reputable research and scientific papers?
Thanks in advance for your considered thoughts.
Its an area that’s highly controversial in many circles. Attitudes about homosexuality have been identified as being a complete or significant block to engaging with Christianity for 47% of New Zealanders in a recent study of over 1000 participants.
https://nzfaithandbeliefstudy.files.wordpress.com/2018/05/faith-and-belief-full-report-may-2018.pdf
The figures are less for people over 65 years of age but between 40-50% of those under 65 years. Regardless attitudes about homosexuality are the largest identifiable block amongst the 1000+ people surveyed.
There are a number of faiths where homosexual behaviour or particular acts are seen as immoral or a sin. They include Catholicism, conservative Christianity, Islam, the Baha’i Faith and some branches of Judaism, Hinduism and Buddhism and no doubt many other faith traditions as well. The other side of the coin is increasing numbers of faiths that are LBGTQ+ affirming.
So what does science tell us about the determinants of homosexuality with reference to reputable research and scientific papers?
Thanks in advance for your considered thoughts.