i was told in biology in college that up until a few generations ago, we were losing our pinky fingers due to lack of use. is this true? if so, what saved em?
2006-06-21 16:19:32 · 8 answers · asked by kelleygaither2000 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Biology
Not true. He made this up. Count the toes on your dog or cat; they have 4 plus a dew claw (that "thumb" on their heal). Most mammals have 5 digits. Our pinkies were going nowhere.
2006-06-21 16:24:16 · answer #1 · answered by neanah_e 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It sounds like a fairy tale to me.
Such changes usually take place over thousands of years. Unless the change confers a dramatic positive advantage.
2006-06-21 23:29:04 · answer #2 · answered by Dan S 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sounds like your professor was losing his mind due to lack of use. Just goes to show that just because he was your teacher, it doesn't mean he couldn't make a mistake.
2006-06-22 00:03:42 · answer #3 · answered by NannyMcPhee 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Wow, they'll let anybody teach in public schools these days. Total BS
2006-06-21 23:43:01 · answer #4 · answered by Argon 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
That was believed back in the 60's. It had since been debunked.
2006-06-21 23:27:08 · answer #5 · answered by lizzardkingone 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Dumbest thing I've ever heard...I think he was trying to have a laugh at his students' expense.
2006-06-21 23:24:03 · answer #6 · answered by jml3148 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i was told, though i prob. don't believe that our pinkies don't use much motar function, so that is why they are diminishing in size...hey im using them right now to type..s.o beats me1
2006-06-21 23:46:41 · answer #7 · answered by kel37 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've never heard of that. :P
2006-06-21 23:24:04 · answer #8 · answered by Cap'n Eridani 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋