Ever wonder why you get goosebumps when you’re cold, scared, or moved by a powerful song? It’s all thanks to a primitive reflex known as piloerection.
Goosebumps happen when tiny muscles at the base of hair follicles contract, causing the hair to stand up. For animals with fur, this reaction makes them look bigger to scare predators or retain heat. Though humans have far less body hair, we’ve kept this reflex through evolution.
Interestingly, emotional triggers can also activate goosebumps, especially when experiencing music, nostalgia, or awe. It’s a physical response that links us to our ancient past—and to powerful feelings in the present.