Even the belief that heterosexuality is the statistical norm has been challenged by some research, starting with that of [Alfred Kinsey]?, which indicates most people's orientation falls along a gradual scale between the two extremes, and that societal influences cause a person to "choose" between one extreme and the other.
There has also been a realization that any attempt at understanding the causes of [sexual attraction]? to the same sex will be more successful if we understand the mechanisms that underlie sexual attraction per se, and more specifically what causes many people to feel sexual attraction primarily towards members of one particular sex.
The traditional Judaeo-Christian view that homosexuality was caused by mingling with non-Israelite tribes, man's rebellious or fallen nature, or demonic temptation has given way to scientific explanations which regard homosexuality as natural. Scientists are now questioning the view that homosexuality is a freely made choice or "lifestyle" that someone decided to follow, and many religions are updating their theologies to conform with science.
The last 20 years have seen an explosion in scientific research into the genetic, biological and psychological causes of homosexuality.
It is unknown how many types of genetic variations lead to homosexuality. It is also unknown whether and to what extent any one's genes compel the development of homosexuality. Many other biological factors may be involved. The following topics need to be elucidated in this entry, with references to imporant scientific and medical journal articles, and books which summarize said articles.
Genetic studies
Twin Studies
Biological Studies not strictly dealing with genetics
Interplay of the environment and the biological make-up of the individual. (Nature vs. nurture)
Various psychological views will also be examined.
The world's various religions have differing views on homosexuality; this topic has its own entry entitled Religion and homosexuality.
Homosexual behavior has been observed in non-human animals as well as in humans.
This entry is only about causal theories. It is not for discussing issues of morality, ethics, human rights, religion, etc. This is not a place to make a point about supposed "sins."
See also heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality, zoophilia
/Debate is where any anything else will get moved