Comments on: Why do we clap? A short history

By: Miles

Miles — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 05:34:22 +0000

Humans are nothing more than clever apes.

By: What should earn a standing ovation? | Speaker Confessions

What should earn a standing ovation? | Speaker Confessions — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 15:23:41 +0000

[...] like clapping and applause, standing ovations are curious things. The idea, in theory, is that when a performance is so [...]

By: Ed Andriessen

Ed Andriessen — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 15:02:46 +0000

It’s also interesting how the sound level of clapping signals the performer/presenter whether or not the audience appreciated the performance.

Ever been to a Toastmasters meeting? Everyone claps enthusiastically whenever anyone speaks. This helps people gain confidence and overcome the fear of public speaking.

I’ve also been to venues where clapping was tepid or non existent. Ouch, painful (especially when you’re the presenter).

By: Gert-Jan

Gert-Jan — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 09:24:58 +0000

Checked out the link I posted myself now. I feel no desire to clap, I must admit. Too professorial perhaps for Sunday morning.

By: Scott

Scott — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 14:47:01 +0000

Gert-Jan: Yes, 3rd century B.C. The article has it right but I missed it, fixed.

I’ll check out that link – thanks!

By: Gert-Jan Bartelds

Gert-Jan Bartelds — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 14:34:49 +0000

I guess the prof means 3rd century BC ?

And check http://www.bbk.ac.uk/english/skc/clapping/ for more.