You’re in a conversation and someone says, “People can’t help being gay. It’s part of their genetic makeup.”

What would you say?

Today, the search has shifted to whether or not there is any genetic component to one’s sexual orientation, and if there is, what kind of role does it play in determining who we are sexually attracted to?

Still, people will often assume that there must be a genetic source for sexual orientation and will talk about it as if it is settled science. But it’s not.

So, the next time you’re in a conversation and someone says being gay is genetic, here are three things to remember:

First, genetics only play a small role in determining sexual orientation.

Second, genetics cannot predict whether a person is gay or straight.

Third, sexuality is not WHO you are, it’s HOW you are.