We belong to a remarkably quirky species. Despite our best efforts, some of our strangest foibles still defy explanation
But as science probes deeper into these eccentricities, it is becoming clear that behaviours and attributes that seem frivolous at first glance often go to the heart of what it means to be human.
1. Blushing
Even Darwin struggled to explain why we would evolve a response that lets others know that we have cheated or lied
2. Laughter
The discovery that laughter is more often produced at banal comments than jokes prompts the question, why did it evolve?
3. Pubic Hair
Scent radiator, warmth provider, or chafe protection? The answer to why humans have clumps of hair in private places is still open for debate
4. Teenagers
Even our closest relatives, the great apes, move smoothly from their juvenile to adult life phases – so why do humans spend an agonising decade skulking around in hoodies?
5. Dreams
Today, most researchers reject Freud's belief that dreams are expressions of our unconscious desires – but if that's the case, what are they for?
6. Altruism
People still debate whether humans are genuinely altruistic by nature, but if we are, most agree it doesn't make evolutionary sense
7. Art
Sexual display, learning tool or form of social glue? Art still refuses to be pinned down
8. SuperstitionMany of us have superstitions – odd, reassuring habits that make no rational sense – but there may be an underlying reason for such behaviour
9. Kissing
The urge to kiss is not brought about by genes, so why do we find it so pleasurable to share saliva?
10. Nose-picking
Many of us do it, but eating bogeys offers little nutritional reward – could there be a health reason for the unappealing habit?
New Scientist
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