Here's a breakdown of the evidence and arguments:
Arguments for Phallic Symbolism:
* Roman Gladiatorial Contests: Some historians argue that a raised thumb in ancient Rome indicated a victor's life being spared, while a lowered thumb meant death. They connect the lowered thumb to a representation of a penis being cut off, hence the symbolism of death. This connection, however, is not universally accepted and is based on interpretations of limited historical evidence.
* Phallic Symbolism in General: It's true that many cultures have used the thumb or other phallic shapes to represent male genitalia. However, this doesn't automatically connect the thumbs-up gesture to this symbolism.
Arguments Against Phallic Symbolism:
* Lack of Definitive Evidence: There is no conclusive historical evidence proving a direct link between the thumbs-up gesture and phallic symbolism.
* Multiple Origins: The thumbs-up gesture has been used in various contexts throughout history, with different meanings.
* Modern Interpretation: In modern society, the thumbs-up is primarily used as a positive or affirmative gesture, with no clear connection to phallic imagery.
Other Potential Origins:
* Roman Salute: Some researchers believe the thumbs-up gesture might have evolved from the Roman salute, which was a gesture of respect and allegiance.
* Counting: In some cultures, the thumbs-up gesture is used to represent the number one, potentially indicating affirmation or agreement.
Conclusion:
While the phallic symbolism theory is interesting, it lacks substantial historical evidence. It's more likely that the thumbs-up gesture has evolved over time, acquiring different meanings in different cultures and contexts. Its current use as a positive and affirmative sign has overshadowed any possible ancient phallic connections.