Why Do We Shake Hands?

Summary

The video explores the history of handshaking, dating back to ancient Assyrian and Greek cultures, where it symbolized alliances, greetings, and friendship. Despite modern concerns about the spread of germs, especially after events like the Spanish Flu and COVID-19, the handshake has remained a resilient custom in many societies. The script discusses expert opinions, such as those from Dr. Anthony Fauci, suggesting that handshakes may never return due to health risks. However, the cultural significance and emotional connection tied to handshakes might ensure its eventual comeback post-pandemic.

Takeaways

• 🤝 The tradition of handshaking has come under scrutiny due to the coronavirus outbreak, with experts questioning its future.
• 🦠 Dr. Anthony Fauci suggested we should stop handshaking permanently to prevent the spread of diseases like COVID-19 and the flu.
• 🏛️ Handshaking has a long history, with one of the earliest examples being an image of a handshake from ancient Assyria as a symbol of alliance.
• 📜 In ancient texts like the *Iliad* and *Odyssey*, handshakes are mentioned as gestures of greeting and respect.
• ⚔️ The common use of the right hand in handshaking may have originated from its association with weapon-holding, making it a non-threatening gesture.
• 🕌 Handshakes are part of both Islamic and Christian traditions, with the right hand being symbolically important in many cultures.
• 💼 The handshake has been a democratic form of greeting in the U.S. since at least the 17th century, particularly promoted by Quakers.
• 🚫 Handshaking fell out of favor during past pandemics, such as the yellow fever outbreak of 1793 and the Spanish flu of 1918-1919.
• 🔬 Despite medical warnings about the spread of germs through handshakes, the custom has persisted due to its cultural significance.
• 👃 Some studies suggest handshakes might have evolved as a way to subconsciously detect chemical signals from others.

Q & A

What was Dr. Anthony Fauci's opinion on handshaking after the coronavirus outbreak?

Dr. Anthony Fauci suggested that we should never shake hands again, as it could help prevent not only coronavirus but also reduce the spread of influenza.

When did the practice of handshaking first appear in history?

One of the earliest known images of a handshake was found at the archaeological site of Nimrud in Iraq, depicting the Assyrian King Shalmaneser III and the King Marduk-Zakir-Shumi of Babylonia shaking hands as a symbol of their alliance.

Why is the right hand traditionally used for shaking hands?

The right hand is traditionally used because most people have historically been right-handed, making the gesture a way to show that neither party is armed. Additionally, religious traditions in both Islam and Christianity associate the right hand with honor and clean tasks.

How did the practice of handshaking evolve in ancient Greece and Rome?

In ancient Greece, handshaking appeared in funerary art as a symbol of farewell or connection in the afterlife. In Rome, handshakes were used on coins to symbolize alliances and friendship.

How did Americans adopt the practice of handshaking?

Handshaking in America dates back to the 17th century, when Quakers used it as a greeting in line with their belief in equality, avoiding elaborate salutations that emphasized social hierarchy.

How did historical epidemics, like the 1793 yellow fever and the 1918 Spanish Flu, impact the practice of handshaking?

During the 1793 yellow fever outbreak in Philadelphia, handshakes fell out of use as people avoided close contact. Similarly, during the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic, handshaking was discouraged due to fears of spreading germs, but the practice returned after the outbreaks.

What role did etiquette guides play in shaping handshaking customs in the 19th century?

Etiquette guides in the 19th century offered advice on the proper way to shake hands, stressing the importance of avoiding rushed or overly forceful handshakes, especially when women were involved.

What did Leila I. Given's 1929 study conclude about handshaking?

Leila I. Given's study, 'The Bacterial Significance of the Handshake,' concluded that handshakes spread disease and argued that while the practice was unsanitary, it was unlikely to disappear due to its deep cultural roots.

Why do some researchers believe people continue to shake hands despite health risks?

Handshakes are believed to communicate trust and social connection. Some studies even suggest that handshaking may allow people to detect chemical signals from others, which could explain why it has persisted despite health concerns.

What is the current debate about the future of handshaking in the post-COVID-19 world?

While some physicians, like Dr. Poland from the Mayo Clinic, argue that handshaking should be permanently retired due to health risks, others believe it may return after a COVID-19 vaccine is developed, as it has deep cultural significance.