What is the purpose of goosebumps?

Answer by  GeorgeT (94)

Goosebumps are names like that after the bumps on the skin left by feathers. In the case of geese, they are large and very evident. Goosebumps are a part of the body´s sympathetic nervous system reaction. It is a manifestation on a state of alert, cause by a strong physical or psychological stimulus.

Answer by  karthik44 (62)

The main purpose was to keep us warmer and more frightfull when we had more hair. Due to evolution we have lost our hairs but goosebumps remains, It occurs when we are cold or afraid. It is caused by the contraction of the muscles attached to the hair follicles.

Answer by  diane23 (1167)

It is a reflex, which makes tiny muscles contract and causes hairs to stand on end. The term is thought to refer to the similarity to birds fluffing their feathers.

Answer by  mchellin78 (47)

Animals covered in fur get goosebumps when they are cold and it causes their fur to stand up. It's a protection. It's also a reaction to big emotions, like fear and excitement. If you see a goose without its feathers, you'll see where the name comes from.