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− | '''Sexual orientation''' is an theoretically immutable [[sexual preference]], as theorized by some developmental psychologists and advocated by many social advocates and partisans.
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− | Many social advocates assert that unknown biological factors are responsible for sexual orientation. Thus, they argue that is by no means a matter of [[choice]], and that it is pointless to try to change one's orientation. Some go so far as to say that the attempt would cause harm, so [[mental health]] professionals must not offer assistance even if asked.
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− | In contrast, [[sexual preference]] refers to a person's preferred mode of sexual activity, fantasy or desire.
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− | Advocates of [[homosexuality]] frequently argue that sexual orientation is fixed at birth, i.e. one is "born that way". This forms the basis of an argument that homosexuality is not a matter of choice, and thus should not be criticized. One may as well criticize a person for having blond hair, or dark brown skin.
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− | Some homosexuality advocates make a weaker claim, i.e., that sexual orientation is caused by a number of factors but does not become unchangeable until early childhood. Likewise, this forms the basis of the argument that no one can be held morally responsible for being homosexual.
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− | There is no scientific consensus on when sexual orientation is fixed, or whether it is fixed at all. All attempts to find a "[[gay gene]]" have failed.
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− | Many people generally disagree with the premises of these homosexuality arguments.
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− | *A person "born" with a strong craving for alcoholic drinks would still be held responsible if he got drunk and injured someone in a car accident.
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− | *A person with an "inherent" hatred of blacks would still be considered a [[racist]] (and in violation of the rule, "Love your neighbor as yourself").
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− | Some Bible passages suggest that the normal, God-given ''orientation'' for human beings is [[heterosexuality]]. Jesus taught,
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− | *"Did you not read that He made them at the beginning of creation, male and female, did He not?
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− | *"And it said, because of this a man leaves his father and his mother and clings to his wife and they become both one flesh.
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− | *"From then on they are not two, except one body. What God has thus united, a human being does not separate." (Matt. 19:4-6)
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| [[category:sociology]] | | [[category:sociology]] |