Ever wonder if homosexuality is an evolutionary mechanism programmed in the DNA to prevent overpopulation?

Question

It's a possibility isn't it? Our body does a lot to adapt us to a particular environment, why not this? I dunno, just a thought, what do ya think?

Well, the concept of evolution is a non-issue. I'm speaking of micro-evolution just a tweak in the genetic code...mutations occur all the time, why not this?

Answer 1

Anything is possible.

Homosexuality has been around since the dawn of time, and there is no reason why EVERYONE on the planet should reproduce simply because they can.

There have been cases of amphibians changing genders in cases of underpopulation to insure the survival of the species.

Perhaps in todays overcrowded atmosphere, homosexuality could be a form of unconcious population control.

Now - if we could just find the "tolerance gene"...

Answer 2

Sure, it's a possibility, but it's not one I personally would put money down on. Homosexuality has been a documented event for a long time before humans were the plague that we are now. It also exists in the animal kingdom amongst a large variety and most of those animals aren't an over-populated species themselves.

Answer 3

If so, it hasn't really worked. Homosexuality does seem to have a genetic component, but much current research indicates that in utero hormone exposure is also quite important. The second part of your question almost sounds like Lamarckism. Our bodies do not evolve in and of themselves, but our species does over time. One must also remember that, although one's sexual preference is not a choice, their sexual behavior is. The treatment of homosexuals in most cultures has generally dictated that they behave heterosexually (marry, reproduce) anyway, therefore any such mechanism as you describe would be useless.

Answer 4

Yup, totally.

I wouldnt even put it down to evolution, just something that nature kicks in.

Me, feeling that the world is way too full, I just hate kids, none specifically, but the idea of raising a family... nope, not for me.
I really dont understand the instinct that forcibly drives people to want families. I dont think they are wrong, just it is very far removed from my feelings.

Expect a lot of flak on this one, but there is simply nothing to refute it

Answer 5

Yes; in fact, I believe that every thing that happens in life and in nature has a purpose, IMHO. If I remember correctly, someone had done studies on certain monkeys, and some of them formed homosexual couples.

Answer 6

I thought it might be a way of keeping population down.

You can check this article:
http://www.pnas.org/cgi/content/extract/103/28/10531?maxtoshow=&HITS=10&hits=10&RESULTFORMAT=&fulltext=homosexuality+biological+brother+order&searchid=1&FIRSTINDEX=0&resourcetype=HWCIT

It shows a link to birth order and homosexuality. I guess if you've already got a lot of males, you don't need more trying to reproduce.

Answer 7

That makes about as much sense as saying that great generals are a product of genetics for the same reason because they can kill people off so much more effectively.

Answer 8

Nope, I believe homosexuality is a choice, and I don't believe in evolution.

Answer 9

anything is possible.... thats very interesting! You will probably get some meanies but dont let them hurt your feelings..... always keep an open mind.......Your life will be much more peaceful =)

Answer 10

the holw point of dna is to help us survive and reproduce -- the basic instincts of all animals eat/survive/reproduce