Sex Itself: The Search for Male and Female in the Human Genome

"Sex Itself: The Search for Male and Female in the Human Genome" explores the genetic basis of sex differences, emphasizing that human genomes are 99.9% identical, with a key distinction being the presence of one X and one Y chromosome in males. The work highlights the binary framework of sex chromosomes and examines the interplay between cultural gender norms and genetic theories from the early twentieth century to the contemporary postgenomic era. Utilizing interdisciplinary methods from history, philosophy, and gender studies, the analysis reveals how societal gender constructs have influenced research practices, the questions posed, and the language used in sex chromosome studies. Historical theories, including early chromosome sex determination, the mid-century concept of the XYY supermale, and debates surrounding Y chromosome degeneration, illustrate the impact of cultural perceptions on genetic science. The text argues that past notions of sexual science continue to affect current research in genetics, particularly following the Human Genome Project, which has positioned genes and chromosomes at the forefront of biological discussions about sex. It advocates for an ongoing critical dialogue regarding the role of cultural gender concepts in the science of sex and gender.