The Puzzle of Left-handedness

(Paperback)

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Description

Left-handedness seems to be no big deal. Many of us are left-handed and those of us who aren't don't tend to give left-handednessmuch thought. Yet throughout history left-handers have been associated with clumsiness, untrustworthiness and insincerity. The Latin word for left, sinister, is redolent with all kinds of ominous connotations. Rik Smits uncovers why history has been so unkind to our left-handed forebears. Through an array of historical anecdotes, strange superstitions and old wives' tales, Smits explains why left-handedness continues to be associated with maladies of all kinds, including mental retardation, alcoholism, asthma, hay fever, diabetes, insomnia, suicidal urges, criminality and shorter lifespans. The Puzzle of Left-handedness is an enlightening and entertaining odyssey through the enigmas and paradoxes, theories and experiments surrounding the left-handed among us.

Reviews

'There is a "whiff of negativity" around left-handedness, admits the science journalist and lefthander Rik Smits in this fascinating study of the phenomenon ... popular legends about left-handedness - and left v right in general - are scarcely less virulent, and Smits dispatches them entertainingly and ably ... thoroughly enjoyable.' - Sunday Times 'In this scholarly and entertaining book, Rik Smits takes us on an impressive odyssey through the paradoxes and theories of left-handed lore.' - Mail on Sunday 'It is a lively read, and Smits, a linguist and science writer, shows his wide range of knowledge throughout ... The book is well arranged, with mainly short, crisp chapters. I thoroughly recommend it as a good overview of issues related to hand preference ... Everyone will find something thought-provoking, witty or just interesting, regardless of personal hand preference.' - Times Higher Education

Author Bio

Rik Smits is a linguist and science journalist and is the author of Dawn: How Language Made Man (2009). He is left-handed.