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

by Dean H. Hamer, Peter Copeland

In July 1993, a scientific event made front-page the discovery that genetics plays a significant role in determining homosexuality. In The Science of Desire , Dean Hamer—the scientist behind the groundbreaking study—tells the inside story of how the discovery was made and what it means, not only for our understanding of sexuality, but for human behavior in general.

In this accessible and remarkably clear book, Dean Hamer expands on the account of his history-making research to explore the scientific, social, and ethical issues raised by his findings. Dr. Hamer addresses such tough questions as whether it would be possible or ethical to test in utero for the gay gene; whether genetic manipulation could or should be used to alter a person's sexuality; and how a gay gene could have survived evolution.

A compelling behind-the-scenes look at cutting-edge scientific inquiry, as well as a brilliant examination of the ramifications of genetic research, The Science of Desire is a lasting resource in the increasingly significant debate over the role that genetics plays in our lives.

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

272 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1994

Reviews

[Chris McCloud]

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]

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]

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.

[Hazel Edwards]

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.

[Dan]

I found this (July 2026) on a shelf where my husband put it 30 or so years ago and thought I'd read it before giving it away. I just discovered here that I'd read and rated it in 2021. Funny, because I don't remember doing so. A sign that I was underwhelmed the first time? Or that advancing age is taking its toll on my memory? Stay tuned for an update.

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Underwhelmed on second reading; must have been on first reading, too. Time to drop it off at the tiny library in my grocery store.

[Luís Branco]

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]

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