I’m actually not sure it’s a cultural universal. I mean, snapping has seen use even in some subcultures within the West. I’ve seen stomping used for a similar purpose, as well. The point is I guess just to make noise communally.

Fun fact, the kiss might not be universal depending on who you ask, either.

Because Jeb! requires it. Now clap.

To kill Demodex mites on our hands that could possibly contaminate something we’re working on

Converting CO² back to 0² by atom smashing.

Because claps are the only currency accepted on the secret market where medical workers buy their groceries.

If it’s after something like a concert it’s people catching the leftover sound waves from the music in their hands so they can take them home and keep them

its something that started with one person and spread to others. We clap because others clap. Its something we got from others.

Because we forget to buy condoms.

Because causing pain to ourselves is a sign of gratitude to those we directing the gesture towards.

To create sound waves.

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Those cheeks aren’t going to clap themselves

To show dominance over the T-Rex

To prove our superiority in grace over sea lions, who also can clap, but not as gracefully

Because we lost our voice