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Homosexual Orientation in Males: Evolutionary and Ethological Aspects

Muscarella, Frank and Fink, Bernhard and Grammer, Karl and Kirk-Smith, Michael (2001) Homosexual Orientation in Males: Evolutionary and Ethological Aspects. [Journal (Paginated)]

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Abstract

Evolutionary theory proposes that adaptive traits are reproduced more successfully than maladaptive traits. Accordingly, natural selection should favour heterosexuality as it facilitates reproduction and the propagation of genes. However, the question becomes, what has maintained homosexuality in a small but consistent percentage of the human population? Research into the evolutionary and hormonal factors associated with a homosexual orientation have yielded provocative but inconsistent results. It also suggests that human sexual orientation, and in particular homosexual orientation, is too complex to be described by one simple model or a single research discipline. The current paper treads a new path and emphasises an integrative approach for the understanding of homosexuality. The authors examine the combined effects of evolutionary factors and neurohormonal processes on the development of a homosexual orientation. It is suggested that research into the topic could benefit from an examination of and change in some of the assumptions upon which much past research has been based.

Item Type:Journal (Paginated)
Keywords:sexual orientation, homosexuality, evolution, adaptedness, kin-selection, sexual behavior, exaptation
Subjects:Biology > Ethology
Biology > Evolution
Psychology > Evolutionary Psychology
Neuroscience > Neuroendocrinology
ID Code:2228
Deposited By:Fink, Bernhard
Deposited On:29 May 2002
Last Modified:12 Sep 2007 17:43

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