Η λειτουργική ασυμμετρία δεξιάς-αριστεράς στον άνθρωπο ή περί δεξιόχειρης και αριστερόχειρης συμπεριφοράς

Περίληψη

Some aspects of left-right asymmetry are reviewed, especially the «operational» asymmetry (left-handedness) in humans. The special character of the left-right polarity of the human body is compared to the rest of the space couples of directions (up-down, front-back). The symbolic meaning of the concepts of «right» and «left» in different civilizations is also briefly discussed. Then, evidence is given on the origin, herebity and population distribution of left-handedness. The relation of left-handedness with cerebral asymmetry is vonsidered. Finally, the several attitudes adopted is different times and societies towards left-handed people and the tendency to reeducate left-handed children, applied until very recently, are discussed. Of special interest are the questions arising in the course of children education. The conclusion is that the main objective should be to shape from every left- or right-handed child a «good» left- or right-handed adult.