Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: That's A Head Scratcher
Sep 30, 2020
Ever wondered why scratching your head is a universal sign of puzzlement? This exploration dives into the cultural roots and evolutionary theories behind this quirky behavior. It also connects physical stress manifestations to self-soothing actions we might not even realize, like hand wringing. Insights from a former FBI agent and fascinating examples from animals uncover a complex web of how stress impacts both humans and animals, revealing the surprising similarities in our responses.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Head Scratching as a Cultural Signifier
- Head scratching, while seemingly nonsensical, is a widely recognized gesture.
- It signifies thinking or pondering, especially in Western cultures.
Evolutionary Relic Theory
- One theory suggests head scratching is a relic of expressing anger or distress.
- It's a modified version of raising a hand to strike, softened for civilized society.
Self-Soothing Theory
- Another theory posits head scratching is a self-soothing behavior.
- It's a way to alleviate stress or anxiety by providing physical touch.