If you have heard me preach or teach,
you know how skeptical I've been of scientific findings of genes that cause
everything from shortness of attention span to homosexuality. Well, an article
in today's Saint Paul Pioneer Press (Friday, April 23, 1999, pg 2A) confirms my
skepticism: "Canadian study questions evidence of ‘gay gene.'"
The article states, "Canadian
scientists are questioning whether a gene inherited from mothers influences men's sexual
orientation in a study that attacks U.S. researchers' hunt for a ‘gay
gene'....National Cancer Institute geneticist Dean Hamer made headlines in 1993 by
suggesting that one such gene resides in a region of the X chromosome, one of the
microscopic structures that carry genes. Men inherit that chromosome from their mothers.
ALTHOUGH HAMER NEVER IDENTIFIED THE GENE ITSELF (caps added), his research suggested its
location by finding that 33 of 40 pairs of gay brothers shared certain genetic
"markers" that heterosexual brothers didn't. But in a report to be published in
today's journal Science, Canadian scientists said they tried to reproduce Hamer's study
and found no link. Neurologist George Rice of the University of Western Ontario
studied gay brothers from 48 families and said they were no more likely to share X-linked
genetic patterns than would be determined by chance."
The article attempts to salvage Hamer's
"findings" with quotes from another scientist, Michael Bailey of Northwestern
University, who concedes that Rice's report "'certainly does decrease the likelihood'
of an X-linked gene, but isn't proof." (note that the last three words are not Mr.
Bailey's words, but they are the words of the journalist). It appears that newspapers,
commentators and nightly news anchors have been led astray since they have for some time
been boldly proclaiming the genetic link. Perhaps this evenings news will correct the
record until further evidence is found.
As a teacher of Christian morality I am
constantly challenged to defend what I believe on the issue of personal responsibility. I
must take this stand in the face of a scientific community that has "proved" a
genetic link to alcoholism, violent behavior, schizophrenia, hyperactivity, obesity, and
homosexuality.
I believe some Christians, who have
already conceded the genetic issue, will not be swayed by any findings to the contrary.
They may prefer to insist that while one has a "genetic inclination" for the
behavior, the person still has the choice to refrain from the unchristian activity (say,
just as a heterosexual chooses celibacy). I, on the other hand, do not concede to the
argument for a genetic link to these activities and until some real evidence comes, I
won't.
Others may read my opinion and ask
"what are your credentials?" My reply is that I have none, except maybe two good
eyes and a mind that can draw conclusions. It is my personal belief that for every Ph.D.
or M.D. who claims genetic propensity for the above mentioned issues, there are Ph.D.'s
and M.D.'s who deny those same conclusions.
This Canadian study will be viewed as a
setback for those who have crusaded the "gay gene" issue in the United States. I
would not be surprised to see the release of "new" evidence in the very near
future that contradicts the Canadian study. Be prepared should it come and always
take your stand upon the eternal Word of God. – Dan Mayfield
