The Science of Desire: The Search for the Gay Gene and the Biology of Behavior

by Dean H. Hamer, Peter Copeland

The scientist behind the ground-breaking study that made a firm genetic link to behavior tells the inside story of how the discovery was made, discusses the possible effects on personality in general, and considers the moral implications. 35,000 first printing.

Genres: Science, Nonfiction, LGBT, Psychology, Biology, Queer

272 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1994

Reviews

[Chris McCloud · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book, and the study done by Hamer, is more of a calling for others to investigate sexual and behavioral genetics. While Hamer did present evidence that genetics influence sexual orientation and referenced neurological differences between homosexuals and heterosexuals, there was no strong conclusion. Hopefully, others will read this book and be inspired to locate the specific gene or genes that Hamer says exist. As Hamer states in this book, there is still scant research into human sexuality.

[Vance Woods · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a decent read for those who have opinions on one of the thornier issues of our time, but who don't necessarily know the science involved. While the science is still a bit robust in places for me, the author manages to cut to the chase while providing some interesting insights into the ways we think about genetics in relation to other, more philosophical subjects: morality, law, religion, etc. And there is no false bravado here: Hamer admits that his experiment still leaves many questions unanswered as to the role of biology in sexual orientation, and encourages others to take up the study and either build upon what he has discovered or disprove the conclusions he has reached.

[Broodingferret · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very clear, well-written and concise. Hamer simplifies the topic for ease of consumption by a lay audience while still adhering strictly to the science. He also makes a point of regularly pointing out both the strengths and limitations of the research that his lab did, lest anyone misunderstand his work or try to take it in inappropriate directions. A must read for those interested in the subject.

[Madisyn Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed Hamer’s analysis and approach to the topic. Not too heavy on scientific jargon and very accessible to those who have a standard public school education on biology/genetics. Interesting to read what research was being done in regard to genetic heritability of personality and characteristics in the early 90s. Much of what was theorized in this era is being used on Ancestry.com/23&me genetic reports! Ex: Based on your genetic profile, you are more likely to be confident/ shy/ night owl/ etc.

[Hazel Edwards · Rating 1 out of 5]

When I'm writing fiction, I try to read broadly about the facts in an area, so I was interested in the gender genes research after co-writing our YA novel' f2m:the boy within' Our novel has an ftm character who transitions gender. However, I found this 'Science of Desire' book irritating mainly as the writer was researching in the area of a gene for homosexuality but almost avoided mentioned females. it was published in the early nineties and some attitudes and ways of researching may have changed but facts should be the same. However, he was very reasonable in admitting the possible faults and difficulties in conducting such research and as a non-medically trained reader I found that helpful. Rarely do I not finish a book, but I was tempted. From a scientist, I would have expected a better structured book. However the interview questionnaire and additional reading at the back were thorough.

[Luís Branco · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very interesting book to read. It doesn't solve the trouble related to homosexuality, but it opened a new window through which we all must look at these issues. It is not an easy position for any side. Hope to see more development in this respect.

[Le · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very engaging narration of Dean Hamer's 1992 search for a genetic linkage to sexual orientation.