ABSTRACT
The question “what is sexual orientation” can be asked and answered on multiple levels: Is it a scientific question, focusing on what can be empirically demonstrated about the biological and social causes of different patterns of sexual attraction, or is it a conceptual and philosophical question, focusing on how we understand human sexual variation in a wider sense, and how we view the role of sexual diversity within society more broadly? This chapter reviews current scientific debates about sexual orientation and expands upon their conceptual significance for understanding human sexuality, revealing deeply held assumptions about sexuality and gender, and informing personal and social approaches to sexual diversity.
