Neuroscientist Andreas Schröer has undertaken an intriguing exploration into the remarkable abilities of human ears. His research delves into the ability of some people to feel their ears moving in response to sound, and even utilize these movements in daily life. However, despite the fascinating nature of ear wiggling, Schröer's study suggests that it may not significantly aid in hearing, as demonstrated through a detailed investigation involving 20 individuals with normal hearing.
The study explored the wide variety of ear shapes and the diverse capabilities for wiggling among humans, highlighting that the variability in auricular muscle size poses a significant challenge for researchers. Auricular muscles, which millions of years ago may have helped human ancestors collect sounds more effectively, now present difficulties in recording their activity. Despite this historical significance, Schröer notes that modern auricular muscle activity likely does not enhance hearing efficiency.
To test the relevance of auricular muscle activity, Schröer conducted an experiment where participants listened to a recorded voice amidst distracting background podcasts. The findings indicated that although the auricular muscles "do their best," as Schröer puts it, they probably do not substantially improve hearing capabilities. This conclusion offers comfort to those with exceptional ear control who may have perceived their ability as unusual.
“They really appreciate it because they always thought they were kind of strange.” – Andreas Schröer
In everyday life, some individuals utilize their ear movements for practical purposes. For instance, Schröer shares anecdotes of people who adjust their glasses by simply wiggling their ears—a testament to the unique yet seemingly trivial applications of this ability.
“They just wiggle their ears a little bit, and then their glasses are back on their nose where they belong,” – Andreas Schröer
Despite these interesting functionalities, the study emphasizes that the auricular activity described is probably not effective in any meaningful auditory context. Schröer candidly summarizes this notion:
“It does its best, but it probably doesn’t work,” – Andreas Schröer
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