Preference for the right or left hand, commonly known as being right-handed or left-handed, respectively, has been a topic of interest and curiosity throughout history. It is estimated that approximately 90% of the world's population is right-handed, leaving left-handed people in a minority. This discrepancy raises the question: why are there more right-handers than left-handers?
Genetic factors in laterality
One of the factors that influence the prevalence of right-handed people over left-handed people has to do with genetics. Multiple studies have shown that laterality is influenced by genetic inheritance. It has been discovered that handedness can be inherited through parental genes, meaning that if one or both parents are right-handed, their children are more likely to be right-handed as well.
In addition, it is has identified that some specific genes are related to laterality. For example, the LRRTM1 gene has been associated with hand dominance in humans, suggesting that there is a genetic basis for the preference for one hand over the other.
Epigenetics and laterality
Another interesting aspect to consider is epigenetics, which studies how environmental influences can affect gene expression without modifying the DNA sequence. It has been hypothesized that environmental factors during fetal development, such as position in the uterus or exposure to certain chemicals, could influence the determination of laterality.
In addition, studies have shown that Laterality may be related to brain functioning and neuronal connectivity. For example, research suggests that there are differences in brain organization and lateralization between right- and left-handers, which could influence the preference for one hand over the other.
Environmental and cultural factors
While genetics play an important role in determining handedness, environmental and cultural factors also play a significant role in why there are more right-handed people than left-handed people. For example, for a long time, society has favored the use of the right hand in various activities, such as writing, eating or greeting, which has led to a greater prevalence of right-handed people in the population.
The influence of education and environment
Education and the environment in which a person develops can also influence the preference for one hand over the other. In many cultures, children are taught to use their right hand to perform specific tasks, which can lead to the suppression of the natural preference for the left hand in those who might have been left-handed.
In addition In certain activities, such as sports or music, laterality can be determined by practice and repetition. For example, in sports such as baseball or golf, where great precision and hand-eye coordination are required, left-handers may have been encouraged to use their right hand to better adapt to a predominantly right-handed environment.
The complexity of laterality
Understanding why there are more right-handers than left-handers involves considering a combination of genetic, environmental and cultural factors that interact in a complex way to determine the preference for one hand over the other. While genetics may establish certain foundations for laterality, the influence of environment and culture cannot be underestimated.
Ultimately, laterality remains a fascinating phenomenon that has intrigued scientists and society in general. general over time, and will likely continue to be the subject of research and debate in the future.