Context
Pushing one theory of the origins of sexual orientation as the only explanation attempts to define everyone’s sexual preferences through one specific lens.
The Argument
Dogmatically arguing that homosexuality is either predetermined before birth, the result of environmental influence, or a concerted choice, attempts to define sexual orientation in a very constrictive manner.
Some homosexuals, or straight people, might believe that they were born this way. Others might believe that they made a choice. Others might trace it back to formative experiences in their childhood. Any attempt to discount another person’s belief on how their identity was shaped is an ill-conceived attempt to define their sexual orientation and should be avoided.
Counter arguments
Understanding what factors influence our sexual orientation is important for both improving public attitudes to homosexuality and securing gay civil rights.
It is not an attempt to force one party’s world view on the others, but a legitimate attempt to understand human development and illustrate why those that oppose gay rights are engaging in a bigoted act no better than racism or sexism.
Growing public support for same-sex relationships has directly emerged from the increase in public belief that gay people are born gay and that homosexuality is innate.[1]
Proponents
Premises
[P1] Our reasons for being homosexual are highly personal.
[P2] Telling someone else why they are gay attempts to define their sexuality.
[P3] Everyone should be free to define their own sexuality.
[P4] Therefore, we don't need to know what causes someone to be gay. All that matters is what they believe formed their sexuality.
Rejecting the premises
[Rejecting P4] Understanding how people come to be gay is important for improving public attitudes towards homosexuality.