Humans need to wipe after defecating primarily because of the unique way our anatomy interacts with our bodily waste. Our anatomy differs significantly from many animals, making us more prone to needing post-defecation cleaning.
The Key Difference: Anatomy
Here's why humans need to wipe, explained with insights from the provided reference:
- Compressed Area: The primary issue, as the reference points out, is that the area where humans release urine and feces is compressed between our thighs and buttocks. This anatomical arrangement makes it more likely that feces will remain on the skin and foul us, unlike many animals.
- Upright Posture: Our bipedal (upright) posture contributes to this issue. Unlike many animals that stand on four legs, the close proximity of our anal opening to our buttocks means that fecal matter has an easier time smearing on the surrounding skin.
- Hair: Many animals have hair in the area, which reduces the likelihood that feces will get directly onto the skin. Humans, on the other hand, have much less hair in the anal region.
Animals' Advantages
While humans have to wipe, animals often do not have the same issue. Their bodies are built differently:
- Tail and Posture: Many animals have tails that can help move fecal matter away from the body. Their quadrupedal stance (walking on all fours) also means that the anus is not tucked between the buttocks like it is in humans.
- Different Consistency: The consistency of animal feces can also play a role. Some animals produce more solid, easily separated feces, while human feces is usually softer and more likely to smear.
- Lack of Concern: The reference also notes that humans tend to regard their waste with disgust, motivating the need to clean. Animals generally don't have the same concern.
Table Summary
| Feature | Humans | Animals |
|---|---|---|
| Posture | Upright (bipedal) | Usually quadrupedal |
| Anal Location | Compressed between buttocks | Not as compressed |
| Tail | No tail | Often a tail for waste removal |
| Fecal Consistency | Softer, more prone to smearing | Can be more solid |
| Disgust Response | Yes | Generally no |
Conclusion
In summary, the need for humans to wipe is due to a combination of our anatomy, particularly the positioning of the anus between the buttocks, our upright posture, and the softer consistency of our stool compared to many animals. These factors, along with our innate tendency to feel disgust towards our waste, create the necessity for post-defecation cleaning.
