Why is your middle finger the longest finger?
No one has a firm grasp as to why the middle finger, the impedicus, is
the longest finger on each hand.
This Latin word, in translation, means impudent, bold, and immodest,
but points us in the wrong direction in solving this mystery, as the
name, and the lewd gestures commonly made with this finger, in no way
explain its length.
The impedicus itself has a Latin name for being the longest, which is
mesaxonic, meaning middle axis. Mesaxonic lends a little more
assistance in the quest for an explanation for the middle finger's
length.
Evolutionary physiologists cling to the symmetry theory, based upon
their studies of the evolutionary reasons for the inner workings of
animals' bodies. Experts in this field hold that the longer third
finger is most likely a vestige of our ancestors' paws, and state the
need for balance as the primary reason for its length.
Their esteemed colleagues, evolutionary morphologists, who study the
evolutionary aspects of the shape and of the structures of bodies,
also adhere to the theory of symmetry, but tack an additional aspect
onto this theory, one they refer to as the "geometry of closing." The
geometry of closing is merely scientific jargon for the fact that when
the hand closes to form a fist, all fingers touch the palm of the hand
at the same time. This way, when they grasp an object, they all share
the work equally. Simply put, the fingers on our hands differ in
length, because this particular shape works so well, and has done so
for millions of years.
Anthropologists, in general, disagree with the balancing act behind
the theory of symmetry. Their underlying reason for disputing this
theory is that, in their studies of human evolution, they have
encountered other primates, man's closest, hairiest relatives, who
have longer fourth fingers. Anthropologists, however, do not pose a
counter theory to the most commonly held one. Until they do, the
theory of symmetry wins hands down!
Have you ever noticed?
When you touch the pads of your fingers to your palm, the fourth (4th)
finger is the longest. This is because of the length and position of
the metacarpals.
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