The Ethics of Homosexuality: Is It Morally Wrong?

In many countries, people who are homosexual face prejudice, discrimination, and harassment. In some countries, homosexuality is a crime, sometimes even punishable by death. Presumably, these responses are often motivated by the belief that homosexuality is morally wrong. Indeed, a 2026 survey suggests that about 39% of Americans believe that homosexuality is wrong. In some countries, nearly everyone believes that. If homosexuality is wrong, there should be a good reason—a good argument, or arguments—to believe that. Likewise, if homosexuality is not wrong, there should be a good reason to believe that. This essay reviews some of the most influential arguments on the ethics of homosexuality.