Homosexuality and Science: A Guide to the Debates (Controversies in Science)

Covering the 19th century to the start of the 21st century, this volume explores the various agruments and developments scientists have used to understand and “treat” homosexuality. It shows how theories of homosexuality have been shaped by hereditary theory, evolution, eugenics, endocrinology, neurobiology, molecular biology, psychology, genetics, anthropology and sexology. It considering the topic within the broader contexts of politics, culture and society. It delineates the biological evidence used to defend the normality of homosexuality, such as twin studiesm, molecular genetics, neurobiological studies and other contemporary research. It includes narratives of gay people mistreated by medical science, contemporary gay and lesbian health and mental health findings, and historical documents on the treatment of homosexuality.