Hidden Benefits of Shorter, Smaller Bodies

Abstract

The advantages of smaller body size represent a major gap in our knowledge among a variety of disciplines, including medicine, public health, education, athletics, ecology and military science. The aim of this paper is to summarize several relatively unknown advantages related to shorter, smaller bodies. For example, shorter, smaller individuals are stronger pound for pound, have faster reaction times, and are more agile. While we frequently admire taller people for their leadership qualities, many short people have also been great leaders and successful business people throughout history. In addition, a wealth of research exists indicating that within similar environments, shorter, smaller people are healthier and live longer. Shorter people also help preserve our food, drinking water, resources and environment. The significance of this paper is that it provides factual information showing that it is unfair and unscientific to promote negative images of shorter and average height individuals as is commonly done in our world.