Nature v nurture: is sexuality inherited

Nature v nurture: is sexual orientation inherited? Humans are sexual beings: we reproduce sexually, and part of our identity as people is in our gender. But to what extent is human sexual orientation directed by our biology? This is a question over which a great deal of ink has been spilled and much disagreement generated. Cutting as it does to an aspect of our humanity which is fundamental and deeply seated, it is an emotive issue. The available scientific evidence may be difficult to interpret, and, rather than being evaluated fairly, is often deployed to support an entrenched position. But what does the science actually tell us about sexual orientation, and are there other factors which must be taken into account in what is often referred to as the "nature versus nurture" debate? The purpose of this paper is to attempt to offer a balanced review of the scientific literature on research into human sexual orientation. While it is recognised that evidence other than that which science can provide must be taken into account (e.g. theological and ethical considerations), this paper consciously does not address these. This is not intended to suggest that scientific evidence is paramount, but reflects the parameters of the task agreed with Lord Hodge 1