Why Lesbianism Is Widely Accepted
In recent years, the popularity of lesbian erotica in the mainstream media has been growing. From the Madonna-Britney kiss to the lesbian liaisons on mainstream shows like Ally McBeal and Buffy the Vampire Slayer to the popularity of The L Word, it's clear: Popular media has tapped into lesbianism to boost ratings.
Surveys reveal that the majority of men and women enjoy watching two women engage in a passionate interlude. But despite society's newfound fascination with females and homosexuality, the social climate towards homosexual males continues to be less than welcoming. What explains this discrepancy? AskMen.com has taken the time to outline the prominent arguments -- biological, evolutionary and social -- for why lesbianism has become the new "Macarena" and why male homosexuality continues to be welcomed with all the fervor of a new Pet Shop Boys album.
biological underpinnings
Our biology offers some insight into why lesbian behavior is more widely accepted than homosexual behavior. Apparently, female sexuality is much more likely to be fluid (i.e. bisexual) while male sexuality is more likely to be dichotomous and rigid (i.e. either gay or straight.)Some studies have shown that there are anatomical differences in certain brain structures (the hypothalamus and anterior commissure) in homosexual and heterosexual males. No corresponding dichotomy was found in the brain structures of lesbian and straight women.
