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There is No Consensus on Biological Sex.
Madeline G Eppley1, Andy Lee2, Robert Dellinger3
1Department of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Northeastern University Marine Science Center, Nahant, Massachusetts, USA.
Ecology Letters
|March 5, 2026
Summary
Scientific and societal discussions continue regarding the definition of biological sex. This study finds no current consensus on a sex definition, emphasizing that human rights should not be dictated by biological definitions.
Area of Science:
- Biology
- Sociology
- Bioethics
Background:
- Ongoing scientific and societal debate surrounds the definition of biological sex.
- Misinformation regarding sex has global policy implications, necessitating scientific clarification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate primary approaches to defining biological sex.
- To synthesize current discourse on sex definitions.
- To provide recommendations for accurate sex description.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific approaches to defining sex.
- Synthesis of active discourse and expert opinions.
- Analysis of assumptions and limitations in current definitions.
Main Results:
- No current consensus exists for a definition of sex that is universally free of assumptions and limitations.
- A lack of unanimity in defining sex is not inherently problematic.
- Actionable recommendations are provided for improving accuracy in describing sex.
Conclusions:
- The scientific community lacks a consensus on a single, universally accepted definition of biological sex.
- Discussions on sex definitions should not be used to infringe upon human rights.
- Accuracy in describing sex can be improved through specific, actionable recommendations.
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