Homosexuality as a byproduct of the evolution of pleasure

Abstract

Homosexual behavior in animal species has been seen as a challenge to the evolution theory. Although a non-reproductive response, homosexuality persists in the species. Several hypotheses on homosexuality's evolutionary advantages have been proposed by many authors but they all contain contrary aspects, at least when human beings are concerned. Current suggestion states that since homosexuality is not genetically determined, no survival value is required. Homosexual behavior pattern would be an evolutionary byproduct of pleasure as an essential consequence of the sexual act to favor reproduction and to maintain links between partners. Although still a preliminary proposal, the statement pinpoints new trends in interpretation and investigation within the relationship between homosexuality and evolutionism.