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Goosebumps may seem like a simple reaction to cold weather or strong emotions, but they are actually a leftover survival mechanism from our distant ancestors. When tiny muscles attached to hair follicles contract, body hair stands up.
In furry animals, this helps trap heat and makes them appear larger to predators. Humans still experience goosebumps even though body hair is much thinner today.
Scientists consider it an example of an evolutionary trait that never completely disappeared. Every goosebump is a small reminder of humanity's ancient past.
© Smithsonian Magazine