Lily, the same can be asked as to why women wear make-up?...Often, men have beards to obscure acne or scars...sometimes they simply look more distinguished (or think they do), or it's a religious tradition, or sometimes it's just what's fashionable at the moment. Remember, back in the day, men of the elite class even wore those large white wigs?...other "fashion" trends include men wearing pony tails, rat tails, an earing, tattoos, goth make-up..jeans with a sport coat...no real function to any of it.
That said, we both know "juicy whooplers" will never be in fashion..:)
ct
EDIT: Just came across this article..strange timing:
1. Beards protect against bacteria and infections;
2. They protect from the sun's harmful UV rays;
3. Australian study showed that men with a heavy beard were deemed most attractive by women;
those with a full beard scored highest in perceived parenting skills
among women; and
4. Hans Langseth passed away in 1927, but his impressive beard length of 17 feet, 6 inches ensures that his name lives on in Guinness World Records. His impressive accomplishment is currently on display at the Smithsonian.
5. Even Jesus had a beard.