Why wasn't I born 4 million years ago?

Mar 15, 2007: So the truth is out. According to a report in several newspapers today, pinched from the journal Evolution - short guys were irresistable to women 4 million years ago. Apparently, our short stature gave us a better fighting position so when it came to a scrap- tall guys ended up the losers.

Thinking back to when I was at school (not quite 4 million years ago, but getting there) I don't think I ever managed to be victorious in a scrap over a girl. Thank goodness I was good looking and charming or I would have never had any success.

There is a disturbing element to this story, in that it is trying to prove that shorter men were more aggressive. An ancient form of short-man syndrome that still remains as a myth even today. I dont see how people think that just because you're short you have to act in this way. I tell you, if anyone ever accused me of short man syndrome I'd punch them on the nose!

The Times took the opportunity to put a picture of the ancient guy (known as an Australopath) alongside famous short people. Poor old Tom Cruise was in the line up again.

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