Does the third sex exist?

Abstract

The growing number of homosexuals has drawn the attention of several researchers in the last decades.

Two main hypotheses have been formulated for explaining the genesis of homosexuality. A psychoanalytical theory assigns the genesis of homosexuality to an acquired disorder of the “sexual pulsion”. The biological theory encompasses organic and genetic reasons for explaining the genesis of homosexuality.

Indeed, some study has shown anatomical differences between the brain of homo and heterosexuals as well as the evidence of a familiar recurrence. This latter data has suggested the occurrence of some genetic factor/s.

Nevertheless, the biological hypothesis has been rebutted by other studies that did not confirm the morphological difference between the brain of homo and heterosexuals as well as by a peer review of the data demonstrating the anatomical differences mainly found in patients suffering from AIDS already treated by hormones. The lack of singling out of specific gene (or sequence of gene) and the technique used for searching homosexual sibpairs are in contrast with a genetic factor/s.

The whole of such evidence prompts us to suggest that homosexuality should still be considered as a personal choice most likely related to the individual experience made within the circle of the family and aided by a very permissive culture. Thus, anatomic variations of brain and genetic factors seem not to play a major role.