Conversations With Coleman Hormones, Ideology, and the Cost of Dissent with Carole Hooven
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Nov 3, 2025 In this conversation, Carole Hooven, an evolutionary biologist and former Harvard lecturer, discusses her groundbreaking work on testosterone and sex differences. She shares her experiences with backlash for stating biological truths, highlighting the complexities of puberty blockers and hormones. Hooven explains the critical role of testosterone in development, aggression, and behavioral patterns, emphasizing the challenges of segregating sports by hormone levels. Her insights challenge cultural narratives, advocating for a clear understanding of biological evidence.
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Public Backlash And Exit From Harvard
- Carole Hooven describes being publicly attacked after a Fox interview where she said “there are two sexes.”
- She faced isolation, loss of teaching support, and negotiated an early retirement from Harvard.
Teach Biology Clearly, Respectfully
- Teach scientific facts clearly and don't alter basic terminology out of fear of student reactions.
- Use precise biological terms (male/female defined by gametes) while respecting individuals' pronouns and identities.
Sex Versus Sex-Associated Traits
- Sex is defined by gamete type, making it a biological binary distinct from sex-linked traits.
- Traits like hormones, identity, and genitalia lie on spectra and can vary independently of sex.
