Anthropologist Ella Al-Shamahi explores the untold science behind one of the oldest,
most familiar (and currently much missed) human gestures – the handshake.
- What is its biological purpose?
- Why has it outlasted other forms of greetings?
- How is it that even uncontacted tribes know what a handshake is?
- What are the best and worst handshakes?
- Has covid-19 pandemic killed it off for good?
Weaving together biology, evolutionary history and anthropology,
Ella Al-Shamahi examines the enduring power of the handshake. She will
argue that the gesture is at least 7 million years old, with origins probably
embedded in our DNA - and will blow apart some myths and misconceptions
about this innate human behaviour along the way.
For more information and
to book your place visit:
newscientist.com/handshake
BIG THINKER SERIES
ELLA AL-SHAMAHI
THE HANDSHAKE:
AN ANTHROPOLOGIST’S GUIDE
Events
BIG THINKER SERIES
ELLA AL-SHAMAHIThursday 25 March 2021 6 - 7pm GMT, 1pm - 2pm EST and on-demand