Wed Dec 24 09:30:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a news article based on it:
Summary:
An article from The Hindu’s e-paper edition on December 24, 2025, explains the science behind goosebumps. It details that goosebumps (piloerection) are caused by the contraction of arrector pili muscles under the control of the sympathetic nervous system in response to cold, fear, or strong emotions. While serving a purpose for furry animals in insulation and intimidation, goosebumps are a vestigial trait in humans. The article notes that goosebumps typically appear in waves due to the coordinated activation of nerve clusters and are generally harmless, except in rare medical situations. The article is written by S.P. Kirtik Raj, an intern at The Hindu.
News Article:
Goosebumps: Why We Get Them and What They Mean
NEW DELHI, December 24, 2025 – Ever wondered why you get those tiny bumps on your skin when you’re cold, scared, or listening to a moving piece of music? A new article published in The Hindu’s e-paper today sheds light on the science behind goosebumps, also known as piloerection.
According to S.P. Kirtik Raj, an intern at The Hindu, goosebumps are caused by the contraction of tiny muscles at the base of hair follicles, called arrector pili. This involuntary action, regulated by the sympathetic nervous system, pulls hairs upright, creating the familiar bumps.
While this reaction serves clear purposes for furry animals, like insulation and intimidation, it is now considered a vestigial trait in humans. We inherited the reflex from our hairier ancestors, but with our diminished body hair, it no longer has a functional purpose.
The article also explains why goosebumps often appear in waves, stating that this is due to coordinated nerve clusters triggering the arrector pili muscles, creating a ripple effect across the skin.
The good news? Goosebumps are generally harmless. The article notes that they rarely indicate health problems, with the exception of uncommon situations like seizures or drug withdrawal. So next time you experience that tingling sensation and those telltale bumps, remember you’re experiencing a fascinating echo of our evolutionary past.
First Piper 