sex than the other, such as left-handedness and color-blindness, are readily accepted as having genetic components. Logically, similar evidence must be admitted with regard to homosexuality, although that does not deny the extreme importance of environmental influences in sexual development.

The authors state there is no such thing as a "well adjusted homosexual," and that while some are better off than others, "the majority are disturbed." In discussing this matter they refer to a number of writers, but curiously omit any mention of Hooker's work, which is by far the most relevant and clear-cut, but refutes their position. They sensibly retain reservations regarding the matter of "cure" through psychotherapy, but apparently they are skeptical less because of inadequate evidence (as they might be) than for other reasons. They are in the rather illogical position of insisting that homosexuality is like other psychological disturbances in that it is a learned way of reacting to traumatic childhood experiences, but then denying that treatment methods effective in ameliorating other such disturbances are effective against homosexuality. Finally, they switch sides again with the following plea: "The homosexual should bear in mind that there are far worse things that could happen to him than having sexual relations with members of the other sex. If it proves necessary to alter or modify one's sex life in order to improve the personal and social adjustment, it is a goal worth struggling toward, especially if the new sexual experiences also prove to be gratifying."

In characterizing the work of others, Cory and LeRoy make two statements which this reviewer feels rather accurately describe their own book: "Because the amount of accurate and verifiable knowledge about homosexuality is still relatively

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small, nearly anyone who knows how to read, but who may have little knowledge or understanding, claim to be an expert on the subject. . . ." And, "There will still be an enormous amount of unfounded and unscientific opinion masquerading as gospel truth and irresponsibly fiung around. . . ." This work is purported to be "a view from within," and in some respects it can be so considered; however, much of the material is merely a rehash of other people's ideas, unfortunately presented with bias and without clarity or significant re-interpretation. Cory's original book is a far better introduction to the subject of homosexuality; the present book has little to offer the reader who needs no introduction. A short lexicon of homosexual slang, a list of current homosexual organizations, and a selected reading list are included.

THE PROBLEM OF

HOMOSEXUALITY

IN MODERN

SOCIETY

Edited by Hendrik M. Ruitenbeek. This outstanding collection of sixteen essays probes one of the least-understood of modern sexual enigmas-information generally inaccessible to the layman. Contributors include Abraham Kardiner, Clara Thompson, Robert Lindner, Freud, Simone de Beauvoir, Albert Ellis.

Cloth, $4.95; paper, $1.95

DUTTON

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