Left-handedness — sometimes called “sinistrality” — means you prefer to use your left hand rather than your right hand for routine activities, such as writing. Most people who have studied left-handedness believe that approximately 10 percent of the people in the world are left-handed.
Experts believe this percentage has remained fairly consistent throughout time. Historically, the left side and left-handedness have been considered a negative thing by many cultures.
For example, the Latin word sinistra originally meant “left” but eventually took on the connotations of “evil” or “unlucky.” This connotation lives on today in the form of the English word “sinister.”
I – Word Understanding
Connotations – connection / hidden meaning
Sinister – harmful or evil
II – Have Your Say
1. In your society / culture, what is the common impression or beliefs about left-handed persons?
2. What connotations of the words “left” and “right” are you aware of?
a. In sports – what is southpaw?
b. In politics – who are the rightist? leftist?
c. In religion
d. In life in general / social etiquettes – shaking hands, driving, palm reading,
3. Ambidexterity is the state of being able to use both hands. Only 1% of us are naturally ambidextrous. Did you know? Using your opposite or non-dominant hand can grow brain cells.
