Hardcore Sciences and Biological Sciences: Digit Ratio as an Anthropometric Differenciator

The second to fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) has been proposed as a putative biomarker for prenatal testosterone and co- varies with the sensitivity of the androgen receptor (AR). Lateralization of the brain is strongly influenced by prenatal androgens, with differential exposure thought to account for cognitive sex differences. This study examines the possibility that prenatal hormones, as measured by the 2D:4D length may influence career choice. A total of 1210 academic staff drawn from all the tertiary institutions in Rivers State was used for this study. 679(56.12%) were males while (43.88%) were females. The subjects were grouped into two: hardcore sciences (A) and Biological sciences (B), according to their departments. The second to fourth digit length on both hands were measured with a digital venier caliper and the ratio calculated by dividing 2D by 4D. Data was analyzed using SPSS software. Result obtained showed no sexual dimorphism in hardcore science (0.96). There was sexual dimorphism in the biological sciences. A same sex difference was observed in the males across the two groups (A-0.96, B-0.97). The differences were statistically significant (p<0.05). This difference was not consistent in females (A - 0.96, B - 1.00). There was evidence of brain lateralization indexed by the pattern of digit ratio. There was no hand lateralization. We found an anthropometric difference in terms of 2D:4D between the hardcore science group and the biological science group in a typical masculine ratio associated with participants in the hardcore science group and high ratio associated with the biological science group. In conclusion, this study has provided a solution to the dilemma encountered by some people especially in career choice.

Key Words: Hardcore science, Biological science, Digit ratio and Anthropometric differentiator