particularly between men, is a sign of homosexuality, whereas various types of same-sex kissing are common expressions of friendship in other nations. Also, many modern and historic cultures have formal ceremonies expressing long-term commitment between same-sex friends, even though homosexuality itself is taboo within the cultures. Law, politics and theology Professor Michael King stated, "The conclusion reached by scientists who have investigated the origins and stability of sexual orientation is that it is a human characteristic that is formed early in life, and is resistant to change. Scientific evidence on the origins of homosexuality is considered relevant to theological and social debate because it undermines suggestions that sexual orientation is a choice." In 1999, law professor David Cruz wrote that "sexual orientation (and the related concept homosexuality) might plausibly refer to a variety of different attributes, singly or in combination. What is not immediately clear is whether one conception is most suited to all social, legal, and constitutional purposes." See also Ascribed characteristics Fundamental Rights Agency Genetic diagnosis of intersex LGBT rights by country or territory List of anti-discrimination acts Queer heterosexuality Romantic orientation Sexual desire Sexual orientation and gender identity at the United Nations Sexual orientation and military service Sexual orientation hypothesis Sociosexual orientation Terminology of homosexuality References Further reading Brum, Gil, Larry McKane, & Gerry Karp, Biology: Exploring Life (John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2nd ed. 1994), p. 663. . (About INAH-3.) De La Torre, Miguel A., Out of the Shadows, Into the Light: Christianity and Homosexuality (Chalice Press, 2009). Dynes, Wayne, ed., Encyclopedia of Homosexuality. New York & London: Garland Publishing, 1990. Interpersonal relationships LGBT