…well, the thumb actually. virtually every U.S. politician i have seen speak makes this funny hand gesture–where the hand is made into a fist and the thumb is placed on top of it. it’s like their making a thumbs up but don’t put their thumb up, or like they are trying to point without putting their index finger out. i don’t have any pictures of this gesture, but i’ve never seen a non-government official do it. does anyone else notice this or know why they do it?
They’re imagining a remote control, and they’re imagining changing channels until they find a crowd they like. But they can never find one, given the nature of politicians.
They’re catching mosquitoes. Out of professional courtesy, they don’t kill the little blood-suckers, just hold them until they can be safely released.
I’ve very often wondered this myself. I first saw it with Clinton, who used this gesture as a multipurpose cudgel for emotions ranging from resolve to assertiveness to happiness. But Clinton was really the first major politician that I had the opportunity to watch extensively, so I’m sure it originated before him.
My WAG- Hand gestures can be difficult to control, and their meanings are variant with respect to culture. In certain circles gestures like the index finger point and the open palm are gauche if not offensive. The “Thumb Wrestling Pin” is a nonoffensive way to appear physically assertive while providing something to keep those wandering fingers occupied and covering the palm. Someone dealing with a multicultural audience (like the president of the U.S.) might find this helpful. Every other politician in the country then imitates the president.
thanks, stolichnaya, that makes sense. wouldn’t be too PC for the pres to point at people and make them feel awkward.
I remember her telling me that particular gesture is en vogue because it is emphatic without being aggressive (which pointing or shaking a clenched fist is). Sort of the same thing that Stoli said, but not as specific.
I said I’d have to check with my sis 'cause she’s got a Masters in the Communications and took oodles of public speaking and debate and whatnot.
I noticed Bush doing this during his speech last Thursday, and I said to my wife, “Hey, look! He did a Clinton!” That’s how strongly I identify that particular hand gesture with him.