Right, Left, Right, Wrong! An investigation of handedness - some myths, truths, opinions and research


Introduction
What is Handedness?
Measuring Handedness
Handedness Statistics
Handedness and the Brain
Theories of Handedness ‣
Other Handedness Issues ‣
History of Handedness ‣
Famous Left-Handers ‣
A Few Final Thoughts
Sources
 
 
 
 
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Theories of Handedness
Genetic theories of handedness are the best we have
Many different theories have been put forward over the years to explain the existence of the phenomenon of handedness. Although none appear conclusive and definitive on their own, a combination of them paints a reasonably plausible and convincing picture.

Thus, the genetic theories seem to offer perhaps the most cogent and comprehensive explanations for natural handedness, the genetic base being spread throughout the species according to evolutionary laws, although it may also be influenced to a limited extent by biological factors, and even potentially altered by societal and environmental effects.

The various theories can perhaps be usefully divided into the following categories:

 

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Introduction | What is Handedness? | Measuring Handedness | Handedness Statistics | Handedness and the Brain | Theories of Handedness | Other Handedness Issues | History of Handedness | Famous Left-Handers | A Few Final Thoughts | Sources
 
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