The Intelligent Hand: An Extension of the Brain

Abstract

Our hands are essential to us. We take it for granted that they will always be present and ready to intuitively execute our intentions. The hands are intelligent and full of silent knowledge; they remember what they once have learnt. In body language they represent much of our identity. The hand has been called ‘the outer brain’ and ‘the mirror of the soul’. The hands have a special link to the soul. Their ‘language’, gestures and expressions reflect our mood, whether it is joy, disgust, despair, surprise, thoughtfulness, disappointment, wonder or hope. Hands can appeal, help and welcome. With our hands we can threaten or deny and express empathy and sympathy. We use them to applaud and express approval, wonder or shame, and we can convey quantity and size.

The hand has a rich symbolic value in religion, art and philosophy, but hand gestures may have completely different meanings in different cultures. When the power and function of the hand is not sufficient, it can be extended technologically through a variety of tools such as levers, joysticks and mobile phones. In modern industry, the competence and creativity of hands have largely been replaced by machines and robotic devices, but the hands’ accumulated experiences and knowledge are still something genuinely human, giving the hand a key role in society and cultural life.