In this episode, we delve into the complex nature of same-sex attraction. We explore the influence of genetics and environment on this behavior, shedding light on the current scientific understanding. Genetic studies have revealed a small genetic component to same-sex attraction, but it is not determined by a single gene. Genome-wide association studies have identified multiple genetic variants associated with same-sex behavior, although their effects are relatively small. Additionally, we discuss the role of the environment, including prenatal hormone exposure and early life stress, in the development of same-sex attraction. While researchers are actively exploring various hypotheses, there is no consensus on the exact factors that contribute to same-sex attraction. The ultimate goal of this research is to gain a better understanding of sexual orientation and work towards reducing stigma and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. However, more research is still needed to fully comprehend the biological and environmental factors that influence same-sex attraction. Join us as we delve into this fascinating and important topic.

Same-sex attraction is found in many animals—but, like all animal behaviours, it can be complicated and difficult to study. The underlying biological mechanisms, however, are of great interest for understanding human health, genetics and evolution. Researchers know there is no such thing as a “gay gene”; in fact genetics can explain less than a third of the variation in people’s self-reported same-sex behaviour. Non-genetic factors, therefore, play an enormous role. Scientists can’t agree on exactly what those factors are, though.

Abby Bertics, The Economist’s science correspondent, visits a Royal Society conference in Cookham on the genetics and evolution of same-sex attraction, to meet some of the researchers applying scientific rigour to these intriguing questions. Lisa Diamond, a psychologist at the University of Utah, explores some of the theories related to brain development in babies. Robbee Wedow, a sociologist at Purdue University, and Andrea Ganna, a data scientist at the University of Helsinki, explain how genomic studies are changing the focus of research into same-sex attraction. Plus, Qazi Rahman, a psychologist at King's College London, explains why investigating same-sex attraction should be of broad interest to everyone. Alok Jha, The Economist’s science and technology editor, hosts.

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