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Biology/Is homophobia a disease?

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Question
Is homophobia a disease or not?

Answer
Dear Kris,

It is not classified as a disease.  It may have evolutionary origins.  But it is generally not socially acceptable in more evolved societies.  Homosexuality is one variation of human behavior, it's genetically and developmentally "hardwired", and hating someone for being homosexual is a bit like hating someone for having blue as a favorite color.

Dana

Biology

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Dana Krempels, Ph.D.

Expertise

I can answer biology-related questions in the areas of evolution, zoology, botany, genetics, and ecology. But I don't answer homework questions or provide ideas for your science fair projects. So students please do your learning the right way by reading your text assignments and studying!

Experience

At the University of Miami, I teach Evolution and Biodiversity, Botany, Zoology, Genetics, Ecology, and a variety of seminars (e.g., the Biology and Evolution of Human Gender Roles).

Education/Credentials
I have a B.S. in Biology and an A.B. in English from the University of Southern California (1980). I earned my Ph.D. in Biology in the area of evolutionary biology/visual physiology from the University of Miami in 1989.

Past/Present Clients
I am currently an "expert" in both the "Rabbits" and "Wild Animals" categories.

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