Beyond the Black and White: Viewing Society through Genetics’ Lens

By: Alodia Iyanla E. Viray | Chromoplexy

Historically, society has viewed biological sex in the binary lens, often mistaking that the biological sex of a person dictates their role in the society. Just as how interactions between physical aspects of each gender and their social status influence their labor roles. This is explained by the biosocial model of the origins of sex difference by Woody and Eagly (2002); wherein women will take on domestic roles compared to men who take on roles in the paid economy and are expected to be the primary provider in their families. This eventually led to men and women taking on different roles resulting in sex-differentiated behavior. Society expects people to act according to their gender roles and stereotypical traits. This is evident until today and is prevalent in a patriarchal society like the Philippines. 

Moreover, as it is historically believed that people could only be one or the other; the concept of homosexuality was not wholeheartedly accepted by the people back in the day. People believed that there are only two types of genders biologically, male and female, and that people could only be categorized in those two. It is a common misconception that sexuality is solely determined by their chromosomes and what was assigned to them at birth. Anything beyond the realm of heterosexuality remains taboo and in some cultures, unacceptable.

These beliefs shaped the society we have today, hence, misconceptions shape how people interact or treat people that deviate from the norms of society. People that identify as part of the LGBTQ often experience discrimination and marginalization on a daily basis. Their identity becomes a way to expose the crooked truth that people do not respect what they do not believe. People tend to use science to defend discrimination against homosexuality; gender biases are evident, especially in the workplace. This poses a pressing issue in our society as this proves unequal opportunities are given to people that are not part of what the society sees as conventional.

Although science is used as a way to justify their discriminating view on different genders, it also has been a tool to validate the colorful genetics of gender. Genetics research has proven that the biological sex of a person is a result of multiple interacting factors. Studies have shown that environmental factors play a role in how people identify themselves in the long run. The sexual orientation of a person is not dictated by one factor alone but a multitude of influences from genetic predispositions, hormonal environments in utero, brain structure differences, and psychosocial contexts (Alagha et al., 2025). This is supported by the concept of chromosome mosaicism wherein the cells of an individual may contain different chromosomes from each other (Trent, 2005), meaning, chromosomes alone do not determine the biological sex of a person.

Through understanding the genetics of gender, society will be more informed about the complexity of the concept instead of simply believing that XX and XY are the only defining characteristics of genders. This will open discussions and avenues that will promote inclusivity among everyone. Diversity will not only be accepted, but also celebrated across cultures. Reforming the way gender is taught is essential and with publicizing gender genetics related research, knowledge about the beautiful intricacies of gender can be broadcast to a wider audience. Through the use of genetics education, we can shine a light through the prism of society and show that gender is as colorful as it can be.