ABSTRACT
Karl Heinrich Ulrichs was the first to formulate a scientific theory of homosexuality. 1 Indeed, his theory implicated, as Klaus Müller has emphasized, “the first scientific theory of sexuality altogether” (1991, 24). It was set forth and elaborated in five writings published in 1864 to 1865. The series of writings was continued—there were twelve in all, the last appearing in 1879—but with only slight revisions in the theory. Ulrichs's intention in his writings was not merely explanatory, but also—and especially—emancipatory. This was based on his view that the condition of being homosexual is inborn. This was a major departure from previous and subsequent theories that saw the practice of homosexuality/“sodomy” as an acquired vice. In this Ulrichs was the first in a long and continuing line of researchers who believe that a proof of the “naturalness” of homosexuality, that is, the discovery of a biological basis for it, will lead to equal legal and social treatment of hetero- and homosexuals. If this attempt seems quixotic, it is nevertheless of historical importance to investigate its origins in the writings of Ulrichs. We shall see that Ulrichs's influence goes beyond any “emancipatory” intent.
