Reflexion 2

During our last discussion we analyzed homosexuality as biologically based orientation. I do not disagree with this assessment; however, I believe that promoting the biological claim as a central argument diminishes the intention of homosexuals to reach acceptance. Unintentionally, the argument segregates those who could potentially choose a different sexual orientation from the one we are assigned at birth.

Tolerance towards homosexuality has been reached in great part due to a scientific focus on proving genetic differences between hetero and homosexual individuals. Based on this research, many conservatives have accepted homosexuality as part of social freedom and equality; some religious groups have come to terms with homosexuality claiming that God has made gays and lesbians who they are; homosexuals have found a strong and valid argument to justify their nature.

However, we cannot forget that our social standards make the process of ‘coming out of the closet’ an incredibly difficult step. While in many social groups homosexuality is validated, gays and lesbians are still stigmatized as ‘out of the ordinary / abnormal.’ Under those conditions, do we really expect to see heterosexuals choosing homosexual relations as their lifestyle? Would they be willing to live under conditions of discrimination, segregation, and stereotyping, as many homosexuals have to encounter? And even if their living conditions were not as considered repressive, would they be willing to be viewed as ‘abnormal’? Could we expect a man to voluntarily give up his place in a primarily patriarchal system and choose to be gay?

Claiming that homosexuality is primarily derived from biological factors closes the doors or those who could choose homosexuality as their ‘lifestyle.’ They cannot have the defense that biological elements defined their identity. Rather, having the freedom to select who they want to be challenges not only social, but biological norms.

No wonder why our focus is biology. We cannot accept the fact that some might willingly and openly give up their place of normalcy in society and adopt a position among a segregated group. We do not value freedom to such an extent; instead, we prefer to say that nature forces an identity upon us.