I find "NEED" to be an interesting choice of words. Do people need tattoos? Do women need makeup? Do men need toupees? Do I need a beard, no? Do I like my face better with a beard? Yes. I don't see where need enters into the decision, it's just a choice like long hair or short hair. Why do men need to be bald? Is that a need or a choice? Do women need to change their hair color?

--

"To protect against other men and their hard fists." There they nailed it. I've had a beard for fifty years because I'm so prone to getting into fights--gee, my wife can't take me anywhere.

--

Next up for scientific study: Why do men need to paint their toenails? Stay tuned for the exciting answer.