Are Left-Handed People Smarter Than Right-Handed People?

When we come across a left-handed individual, we usually feel a bit surprised and consider them to have some sort of special abilities. This belief is there because most of our friends and family are right-handed individuals. It is estimated that around 90% of the population is right-handed and just around 10% of the population is left-handed. So, when we meet a left-handed individual, we usually tend to admire their ability to do things with their left hand.

It has also been a common practice in society to consider left-handed people as being smarter, more creative and intelligent. But is that true? Are left-handed people really smarter than right-handed folks? To answer that, here are some important things to know.

Research studies show ambiguous results – A number of research studies have been conducted to determine whether left-handed people are smarter than right-handed people. While some have found left-handed people smarter, other studies have ruled in favor of right-handed people. So, as far as research studies are concerned, there is no clarity on who is smarter.

Famous left-handed people – To prove their point, one of the arguments is to take the names of famous people that were left-handed. The list includes Barack Obama, Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, Hugh Jackman, Morgan Freeman, Eminem, Paul McCartney, Jay Leno, Gordon Ramsey, Angelina Jolie, Scarlett Johansson, Babe Ruth, LeBron James, Buzz Aldrin and Keanu Reeves. While this pack is quite impressive, the list of famous right-handed people is likely to be pretty long as well.

Countries with highest left-handed people – Another common argument is to show that much of the developed countries have a higher percentage of left-handed people. For example, Netherlands has around 13.23% left-handed people, United States – 13.10%, Canada – 12.80%, United Kingdom – 12.24%, France – 11.15% and Germany – 9.83%. While this data seems believable, there can be various reasons for the wealth of these countries.

Genetics and environment – Scientists believe that factors like genetics and environment have a role to play in a child developing as a left-handed or right-handed person. Research reveals that around 40 genes may be involved in deciding a child’s hand preference. Environment, cultural influences and prenatal exposure can also have a role in deciding hand preference. Injuries at an early age can also influence hand preference.

As is evident from above, there is no clear answer as to whether left-handed people are smarter than right-handed people. Some people are naturally talented or they must have worked hard to become successful. Their hand preference may not necessarily determine their capabilities. Right-handed folks can even train to become left-handed and vice-versa. Overall, there is no proper evidence to prove that left-handed people are smarter than right-handed people.