I would not list their aesthetic qualities as one of the major reasons for us having nails (unless they function as an indication of general health), as I know of no products of evolution which are developed solely for their visual appeal (example: Butts / breasts on Human women are signals of sexual maturity, but both constructs serve purposes beyond attracting mates). If, indeed, our ancestors had claws - then the obvious suggestion is they served some purpose in combat. Weather the construct (nail, talon, claw) or the entity (the entire thing) is in regression is a different subject.
Indeed, our current nails are applicable for eating some foods, but the construction of our mouth and the presence of our thumb seems to over-ride that notion.
I often consider the idea that our defense mechanisms, in the absence of tools, are well-suited for the spread of disease and infection (A less deliberate Komodo Dragon?). The destructive effects of our skin's various secretions, the unsanitary environment of our mouth and hair, and our constant scratching of various body-parts seems enough to support the juvenile stages of such an idea.
We scratch and itch to keep the contents of our finger-nails thickly layered beneath them. When we break the skin of something there's a good chance of these layers breaking away / into / upon / around / ect the impact site. If it goes uncleaned, an infection could easily build.
Of course, this is possible with any bite or scratch. Though we may have applied a more sure-fire method of applying it.
I have no doubt I'll face palm upon remembering that I wrote this, should I ever find it again. :p
Indeed, our current nails are applicable for eating some foods, but the construction of our mouth and the presence of our thumb seems to over-ride that notion.
I often consider the idea that our defense mechanisms, in the absence of tools, are well-suited for the spread of disease and infection (A less deliberate Komodo Dragon?). The destructive effects of our skin's various secretions, the unsanitary environment of our mouth and hair, and our constant scratching of various body-parts seems enough to support the juvenile stages of such an idea.
We scratch and itch to keep the contents of our finger-nails thickly layered beneath them. When we break the skin of something there's a good chance of these layers breaking away / into / upon / around / ect the impact site. If it goes uncleaned, an infection could easily build.
Of course, this is possible with any bite or scratch. Though we may have applied a more sure-fire method of applying it.
I have no doubt I'll face palm upon remembering that I wrote this, should I ever find it again. :p
