An Analysis of the Theoretical Origins and Persistance of Asexuality in Humans

Abstract

Asexuality is defined as a lack of sexual attraction to members of any sex or gender. This phenotype would be considered detrimental in the context of the fitness of the asexual individual, so the question on how this trait originated and continues to persist remains unanswered. Synthesizing studies on asexual humans, homosexual human genetics, evolutionary selection theories, and historical context, the issue of asexuality and the fitness of asexual individuals is considered from multiple points of view. While no clear conclusion is produced, the possibility of a combination of polygenic traits and cultural context not seen in most animal species is proposed as possibly asexuality’s initial origin and persistence in human populations. Further research is needed in queer studies and behavioral evolution before a more definite conclusion can be reached.