This article critically examines the implications of big data-driven research in genomics, particularly concerning its impact on social research and theory. Using a large-scale genome-wide association study (GWAS) on sexual orientation as a case study, the authors argue for a deeper reflection on how societal relations and categorizations are inscribed into genomic data and research practices. They analyze the study from three perspectives: (1) the inscription of societal relations and categorizations into research outcomes; (2) the increasing distance of big data-driven research from established social theory and methodology; and (3) how the assumption of 'theory-free' research ignores inherent choices restricted by available data. The authors caution against marginalizing social science in data-driven research that neglects social theory, established methodology, and the contextual relevance of the social environment.

Melanie Goisauf, Kaya Akyüz, Gillian M. Martin