Is Homosexuality Natural? Yes. So is male lactation.

Join Our Community of Science Lovers!

This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American


As Gwenn Seemel points out in her richly illustrated book, Crime Against Nature, the non-human animal kingdom is chock-full of examples that challenge many of our deeply held beliefs about what is "natural" behavior in everything from sexual preference to lifestyle choices to gender roles and even gender identity.

A third gender, male pregnancy and lactation, female penises - Seemel's book covers it all and reminds us that if you're inclined to look to nature for answers regarding what is "normal," "natural," or even "moral," it's clear that nature passes no judgement. There are no rules but the ones we impose on ourselves.

These images comprise a series of posters that combine the book's text and illustrations into one. Many of Seemel's original acrylic paintings from Crime Against Nature are available for sale (scroll down).


On supporting science journalism

If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.


You can read Crime Against Natureonline for free or buy it in pdf format ($6) or hard copy ($35).

Gwenn Seemel is also a portrait artist. View her portrait portfolio here.

It’s Time to Stand Up for Science

If you enjoyed this article, I’d like to ask for your support. Scientific American has served as an advocate for science and industry for 180 years, and right now may be the most critical moment in that two-century history.

I’ve been a Scientific American subscriber since I was 12 years old, and it helped shape the way I look at the world. SciAm always educates and delights me, and inspires a sense of awe for our vast, beautiful universe. I hope it does that for you, too.

If you subscribe to Scientific American, you help ensure that our coverage is centered on meaningful research and discovery; that we have the resources to report on the decisions that threaten labs across the U.S.; and that we support both budding and working scientists at a time when the value of science itself too often goes unrecognized.

In return, you get essential news, captivating podcasts, brilliant infographics, can't-miss newsletters, must-watch videos, challenging games, and the science world's best writing and reporting. You can even gift someone a subscription.

There has never been a more important time for us to stand up and show why science matters. I hope you’ll support us in that mission.

Thank you,

David M. Ewalt, Editor in Chief, Scientific American

Subscribe