Yes, I’m one of those lefty scum. Left-handed, that is.
10 to 12 percent of the population is left-handed, but there’s no real evidence that the left-handed are more creative. (photo by Drew Partrick)
Today is International Left-Handers Day. No, I didn’t know such a day existed either, but thanks to The New York Times (scroll to the bottom to find the relevant article), I now also know that 10 to 12 percent of the population is left-handed, parrots and kangaroos are mostly left-handed, and we’re more likely to be schizophrenic, dyslexic, and make less. (At least the universe is on our side.)
Naturally, since I’m a lefty myself, I got to wondering about these things, especially the bit about income. As you know, I’m in one of what’s called the creative professions, which generally isn’t as lucrative as more, well, practical vocations. (This is the point where I should probably say “hey, buy a book, yeah?“) Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to find information on any studies that would either confirm or deny this link, and even the evidence of lefties being more creative is anecdotal at best and is based on, at best, flawed science. (I’d also be curious to learn whether left-handers are more likely to be gay, as I’m the only one of either in my family.)
One thing I know personally is that being left-handed does teach one to be adaptable. I use the mouse right-handed. I bat right-handed (although when was the last time I picked up a baseball bat? I’d probably end up hitting the catcher in the face at this rate). I use just about every kitchen implement (can openers and the like) right-handed. Of course, that’s anecdotal evidence with a sample size of one, so it’s not worth much.
And you know how they always say that you should hire the left-handed because it’s fun to watch them write? Well, I don’t really do that hooked-wrist writing posture. I’ve always turned my paper at an angle and held my wrist (insert obvious joke here) straight—which I guess is the strongest evidence I have that I’ve always thought the world should adapt to suit me.
