The handshake is a widely used human gesture whose exact origins are difficult to pin down, though several outlets note that it appears in ancient societies. A common explanation is that it developed as a sign of good faith: by extending a hand, people could show that they were unarmed, helping to reduce perceived threat. Rather than serving only one purpose, the gesture has taken on many meanings across time and cultures. The Conversation describes the handshake as both familiar and ancient, used to signal trust, alliance, and cooperation, but also associated with other contexts such as deception and grief. While modern usage often focuses on politeness, introductions, or agreement, the sources collectively emphasize that the handshake’s significance has shifted depending on setting and relationship. Overall, the available accounts suggest that the handshake’s development is not definitively documented, but that its persistence reflects its versatility as a social signal, ranging from attempts to build confidence to expressions connected to more complex human situations.
Origins of the handshake: when it began and why people use it
The handshake is a widely used human gesture whose exact origins are difficult to pin down, though several outlets note that it appears in ancient societies. A common explanation is that it developed...
- The exact origins of the handshake are not fully known, though it is linked to ancient societies.
- A common theory is that handshakes symbolise good faith by showing participants have empty hands and no weapons.
- The gesture is widely described as ancient and familiar across human cultures.
- The handshake has been used to signal trust and alliance.
- It has also carried other meanings, including grief and deception, depending on context.
Handshakes can be traced back to ancient societies, but the exact origins are somewhat mysterious. It is often said – although difficult to prove – that the gesture developed as a symbol of good faith, with the participants showing their hands to be empty of weapons.
3 months agoThe handshake is one of the most ancient and familiar gestures. It has carried many meanings – signalling trust and alliance, but also grief and deception.
3 months agoThe handshake is one of the most ancient and familiar gestures. It has carried many meanings – signalling trust and alliance, but also grief and deception.
3 months ago
Nepal flash floods leave hundreds missing, including Indians and other foreign nationals
Flash floods triggered along Nepal’s Tibet border kill hundreds and leave large numbers of people unaccounted for, with...
Reports of unusual side effects after Viagra use prompt health warnings
Several reports describe people experiencing unusual effects after taking Viagra, including hearing problems (such as go...
Hundreds of foreign nationals reported missing after Nepal–Tibet floods
Deadly flash floods strike the Nepal–Tibet border region, with hundreds of people reported missing and many believed to...