The Science of Desire
| Company type | Book |
|---|---|
| Industry | Publishing |
| Founded | 1994 |
| Founder | Dean Hamer, Peter Copeland |
| Products | Non-fiction book |
The Science of Desire: The Search for the Gay Gene and the Biology of Behavior is a 1994 publication by geneticist Dean Hamer and journalist Peter Copeland that explores Hamer’s investigations into the genetic factors related to homosexuality.
Reviews of the book ranged from mixed to favorable. It was lauded for its accessible scientific explanations, transparent discussion of the constraints inherent in genetic studies on homosexuality, ethical reflections, and extensive referencing. Conversely, some reviewers challenged Hamer’s evolutionary assertions, noted certain factual errors, criticized the early adoption of the term "gay gene," and perceived a partial approach in his analysis of psychology and psychiatry.
Summary
Hamer advocates for rigorous scientific inquiry into human sexuality and details research focused on Xq28, a segment of the X chromosome. Drawing inspiration from Darwin’s The Descent of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex and influenced by Lewontin, Rose, and Kamin’s Not in Our Genes, Hamer transitioned his research emphasis from metallothionein genetics toward the genetics underlying homosexuality. He acknowledges the political sensitivities surrounding behavioral genetics and offers critiques of prominent figures such as Alfred Kinsey and Freud regarding their perspectives on homosexuality.
Publication history
The Science of Desire was initially released in 1994 by Simon & Schuster.
Reception
The book received commendations from outlets including Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, The New York Times Book Review, New Scientist, The New England Journal of Medicine, The New Republic, and National Review. More ambivalent evaluations appeared in Choice, The New York Review of Books, and the Journal of Sex Research. Additional attention came from publications such as The Advocate, The Washington Post, The New Yorker, Socialist Review, New York Native, and Lambda Book Report.
Genevieve Stuttaford described the work as "admirably lucid," praising Hamer’s ability to clearly convey complex genetic concepts alongside ethical considerations. Constance Rinaldo recommended it for both lay audiences and experts alike. Natalie Angier acknowledged Hamer’s objective presentation but found the latter chapters less engaging.
Martin Johnson pointed out that the title might misleadingly suggest that a definitive "gay gene" had been discovered; nevertheless, he appreciated the insightful discussion on scientific challenges related to sexuality research. He characterized the writing as articulate and anticipated it would provoke ethical debates concerning genetics and sexual orientation.
Susan Bradley regarded the book as a prudent scientific narrative that openly recognized research limitations but criticized its misleading use of "gay gene" terminology and its dismissive stance toward psychological theories.
Jonathan Weiner valued Hamer’s restrained tone that avoided sensationalism. Paul R. Gross recommended it for a broad readership. W. Lener noted some errors yet considered it beneficial for both general readers and specialists.
John C. Gonsiorek commended the engaging synthesis presented but criticized inconsistencies in addressing psychological topics and evolutionary hypotheses, along with Hamer's antagonistic attitude toward psychiatry.
Richard Horton viewed it as an accessible yet significant contribution to understanding biological influences on male sexual orientation, though he expressed reservations about speculative elements and emphasized the need for replication of results.
The Lancet supported Hamer’s suggestion to establish a National Institute for Sexual Health aimed at coordinating federal research on sexuality, highlighting its importance for society.
Philosopher Timothy F. Murphy underscored the necessity for further verification due to small sample sizes and replication challenges in Hamer’s work; he also questioned whether findings from animal behavior studies would affect societal acceptance. Gay rights advocate Dennis Altman dismissed Hamer’s genetic explanation as questionable, conflicting with long-standing perspectives from Freud and Kinsey.
See also
Bibliography
- Books
- Journals