avatarBernie Pullen

Summary

The website article discusses the historical bias against left-handed individuals, noting that left-handedness was once considered evil or unlucky, but highlighting the positive attributes and famous historical left-handers, ultimately celebrating left-handedness.

Abstract

The article titled "Not So Long Ago Being Left-Handed" delves into the stigma surrounding left-handedness, revealing that left-handers were often compelled to switch to their right hand, as evidenced by the experience of the author's father. It explains that the term "left" in French can mean "clumsy," and the Latin word "sinister" reflects a broader historical bias against left-handedness. Despite these negative connotations, the article emphasizes that a significant portion of the world's population, approximately 10%, is left-handed. This includes notable figures such as Obama, Oprah, Mozart, and Einstein. The piece argues that left-handedness is associated with creativity and complex reasoning, suggesting that left-handers often excel in creative professions. The article encourages embracing left-handedness and invites readers to join The Orange Journal for more insights on self-improvement and personal development.

Opinions

  • Left-handedness, despite historical prejudices, should be a source of pride, not shame or suspicion.
  • The author asserts that left-handers possess unique advantages, such as enhanced creativity and aptitude for complex reasoning.
  • There is an implied opinion that societal attitudes towards left-handedness have been unjust and based on superstition rather than fact.
  • The article challenges the outdated notion that left-handedness is linked to negativity or malevolence, citing the successful contributions of left-handed individuals throughout history.
  • The author likely believes that embracing one's natural handedness contributes positively to one's identity and abilities.

Not So Long Ago Being Left-Handed

Was considered evil or even unlucky

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

Many left-handers were forced to write with their right hand. My dad was one.

In French “left” is “gauche” but can also mean “clumsy”.

The Latin word for “left” is “sinister”.

Which reflects this historical bias.

To be left-handed was seen to be unlucky or evil.

Yet 10% of the world’s population is left-handed. That’s around 836,000,000 people across the globe.

Which would mean there are a lot of sinister people out there.

I am left-handed and proud. And there’s nothing sinister about me.

Being left-handed has its advantages.

Left-handers are creative. Good at complex reasoning too.

They are often writers, artists, musicians.

Members included Obama, Oprah, Mozart, Einstein.

I’m guessing there are also several lefties here.

Become a Medium member.

Follow The Orange Journal so you don’t miss a post. Do you love to write about self-improvement and personal development? Learn how to be added as a writer here. 🍊

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