The relevance of scientific research about sexual orientation to lesbian and gay rights

Abstract

This essay considers the way in which scientific research is relevant to questions of lesbian and gay rights. It is specifically argued that such research is not relevant to these kinds of arguments because its results about the origins of sexual orientation do not necessarily-and should not be taken to-imply conclusions about moral entitlements. Questions about the moral and civic entitlements of gay men and lesbians are not bolstered or advanced by reference to biological accounts of sexual orientation. This is not to suggest, however, that research into the origins of sexual orientation is objectionable, only that it does not have the significance for moral rights that some have claimed.