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The science behind cuteness

Why are animals so cute?

By Sophia GenoPublished 4 years ago 3 min read
2
Red panda boop

Regarding house pets, most scientists suggest humans started keeping dogs as pets up to about 30,000 years ago. At this time it is sure that cuteness was not the only reason we decided to keep dogs, but I'm sure that didn't hurt.

Oldest friends

Akita Inu: one of the oldest breeds

One of the oldest breeds of dog: Akita Inu, have skeletons dated to around 8,000 B.C. This makes the breed one of our oldest and most faithful friends. But why? It is observed that the oldest breeds of dogs have two large advantages for humans. Cuteness, and ability to help humans live by herding or hunting alongside them. Before society was able to keep Pugs in their purses, we needed a companion that would help us survive, and be adorable of course.

Saluki: another one of the oldest breeds of dog.

Another one of Mans' best friends is the Saluki. This dog has a rich history of helping nomads hunt for food in the Fertile Crescent. This with no doubt helped to create the life long bond between animals and humans. We as humans have grown to need dogs, first for survival and now many would say that has not changed.

The science of cuteness

From the movie: Keanu

In modern day you can find animal accounts on almost all platforms with up to millions of followers. Why is this? At first the idea might surprise you but humans' love for animals is not new news.

Cuteness is so powerful that it creates chemical reactions in your brain. When you see something as cute, it release a small amount of dopamine into your system. This dopamine causes the happy feeling when you see cute things! Consequently, if you see enough cute things, your mood will improve and even your focus. Since cuteness can release the same hormones that happen when someone is addicted to drugs, that is why cuteness feels so addicting! Of course watching cute animal videos is much healthier...

Scottish fold cuteness

Since cuteness holds the power to make us happy, it is almost like therapy. And for many people, including ones in nursing homes, hospitals, or those suffering from depression, doctors actually recommend interaction with animals!

Companies such as Pet Partners pair up with owners of animals to share their pet's cuteness with those who need it. With this company in particular you can even take your pet bunny or guinea pig! Our relationship with animals has evolved to rely less on their survival benefits so we can solely focus on how happy they make us from being cute! Doctors approve and so do we.

A fluffy baby offering happiness to a senior

Dedication to cuteness

So we know that cute animals literally make our brains happier with hormones, but what about those who just don't find anything particularly cute? Well there is a little more science behind that feeling that cute animals give us. It is noted that most animals we find irresistibly cute have some things in common. Big eyes, soft appearance, small bodies, big heads, and other baby like qualities. Subconsciously these appearances alone trigger maternal instinct in humans and other animals alike. So basically when cats make their cute meows or rub on us they are using our natural instincts to manipulate our minds! How sneaky, and how very cute that still makes them.

A chimp falling victim to a cute baby tiger.

There are also a few famous organizations known for dedicating their life to help protecting cuteness, even if they don't solicit it. Organizations such as the ASPCA have made their life out of caring for, adopting, and saving animals of all shapes and sizes. In America especially, the Humane Society specializes in saving and giving medical care to all animals in need. These companies are also very keen on using cuteness to get the donations they need...

How cute ;;

In the end, cuteness ties into our lives in ways we are yet unaware of. When your pet does something naughty you probably forgive them, because of their cuteness. When we are sad and in need of a mood lifter, funny cat videos? Yes please! release that dopamine!

And who has been the greatest mayor of all time?

Stubbs, the former mayor of Talkeetna, Alaska. Thank you for your service Stubbs, from July 1997 to July 2017.

Where are places I can get endless cute medicine?

therapy
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About the Creator

Sophia Geno

I love to write about travel, poems, art, and social issues. Stay with me for Korean content, and more!

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