Annotated Bibliography

Kosslyn, Stephen M. & Rosenberg, Robin S. "Sexual Orientation: More Than a Choice." Fundamentals of Psychology in Context (2007): 324-326.

There is evidence that male homosexuals have different brain structures than male heterosexuals. Studies show the hypothalamus may be different between the 2 types of sexuality. There is also evidence that women differ in certain parts of the neural system depending on sexuality. This article does not portray sexuality as a choice, but more so a biological difference.

Murphy, Timothy F. (Fall 2000). Now What? The Latest Theory of Homosexuality. Newsletter on Philosophy and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Issues, 00. 7/11/07, from http://www.apa.udel.edu/apa/publications/newsletters/v00n1/lgbt/04.asp

In this article, Timothy Murphy introduces the idea that homosexuality could be caused be a microbial infection. If true, this theory would challenge the argument that homosexuality is genetically influenced. Murphy believes that if homosexuality is caused by a microbe, "that research could re-pathologize homosexuality and open the door to methods of prevention and treatment" (13). The research so far is not enough to support the claim, but it is a surprise to both scientists and social structures.

Daly, Meg. (2007, Fall). Bi-Rite. Bitch, 37, 48-51, 95.

In this article, Meg Daly interviews Jennifer Baumgardner, a feminist and author about bisexuality. She strongly believes that labels bring the homosexual and bisexual community down. She emphasises the purity of a relationship, no matter the sexuality involved. She also states that some women are afraid of being catagorized as lesbian and therefore have trouble being accepting of who they are or standing up for their sexuality. It is important to understand Jennifer's views because she is a first account of a modern day bisexual. She is a very good symbol of the gay community, for she has taken the criticism and anger very well, and lets what others say brush off her shoulder.

Morrison, Suzanne. (November 7th, 2007). Further Evidence that Genetics has a Role in Determining Sexual Orientation in Men. McMaster University. November 12, 2007 from http://fhs.mcmaster.ca/main/news/news_2007/sexual_orientation_genetics.html

Sandra Witelson, a doctor at McMaster University, has found new evidence that the size of the posterior corpus callosum may be related to sexuality. The callosum is larger in homosexual men than in heterosexual. What makes the information important is the idea that sexuality could be controlled biologically. The researchers were able to predict sexuality in 95 percent of their test subjects.

White, Jamie. (October 15, 2007). Scientists Alter Sexual Orientation in Worms. November 12, 2007 from http://unews.utah.edu/p/?r=101207-1#Media_Contacts

University of Utah professors Jamie White and Erik Jorgensen have found a way to alter the sexual preference in nematode worms. Through altering the nervous system that is directly connected to the brain, they were able to control the sexuality of female worms to make them think and act like males. Although not conclusive in humans, “‘it raises the possibility that sexual preference is wired in the brain,’" Jorgensen says. The ethics are substantial if ever found to be the case in humans, for sexual preference could be altered by surgery.