The discussion on why the majority of people are right-handed has been attributed to brain functions, evolution, cultural and social influence by researchers at various levels.
There is a common belief in the Christian book, the Bible, that God’s chosen are by his right hand, while those who are rejected are by his left. Also, the idea that lefties die roughly 10 years earlier is a common fallacy.
It is important to know that being “handed” is a part of who we are, regardless of whether we are left-handed, right-handed or ambidextrous (the ability to use both hands with equal proficiency) which is very rare.
Here are the reasons why most people are right-handed:
Brain functions
The issue of being right-handed or left-handed is as a result of the configuration of the nervous system and the former is more common in women.
This has been attributed to the human brain being divided into two hemispheres which control the sides that are used. The right hemisphere is designed to control the left side of the body and the left hemisphere controls the right side.
Evolution
Historical evidence indicates that early humans’ preference for the right hand was clear, especially in doing specific tasks such as tool-making, hunting or defence.
According to Frayer et al., 2016, Homo habilis, Homo erectus and Homo heidelbergensis tend to use the right hand more as they used to grasp things with the right side of the mouth, indicating that they brought those objects to the mouth with the right hand more often (Uomini, 2009).
Cultural and Social Reinforcement
Another reason for most people being right-handed is due to societal norms stigmatising left-handed individuals by teaching them to use their right hand. Also, weaponry, writing systems and most of the tools in running day-to-day affairs are designed for right-hand use.
In conclusion, most people are accustomed to right-handedness as a result of the way the brain functions, evolution and societal influences.
