Below are nine science-backed reminders that humans are inherently good!
1. Human beings are hardwired for friendship.
We crave connection as a species. Research shows that human beings are biologically programmed to seek friendship or companionship. Spending time with our loved ones helps us beat stress and improves our mood.
2. Human beings are naturally empathetic.
A 2013 study from the University of Virginia found that human beings are hardwired for empathy. When we relate to another human being and their experience, we feel real pain over what they’re going through. That could inspire us to take action to help out in any way that we can.
3. Kindness makes us feel happy.
Research shows that kindness makes people happier and in turn that happiness makes us kind. It is a positive cycle.
4. Our first instinct is to act selflessly.
Comprehensive research on human behavior suggests that we’re instinctively cooperative and willing to act out the good of our social groups, Scientific American reported. In other words, we initially feel compelled in a situation to put others before ourselves.
5. A human’s ability to fall in love is biological.
Research shows there are reactions in the brain when we fall in love ― either romantically or as a caregiver ― making it likely that we’re naturally wired to do so. Not only that, body releases feel-good chemicals that trigger physical reactions when we’re with someone we adore, a response that’s entirely automatic and out of our control.
6. Holding hands with someone alleviates fear.
Human connection is a powerful thing. Studies suggest that holding hands with another person can immediately reduce stress and fear.
7. Our bodies physically change when we hug someone.
A warm embrace is one of our greatest stress relievers, which is a pretty great characteristic of being human. Research shows hugging can release feel-good hormones like oxytocin in the body and lower blood pressure. Perhaps that’s why it’s so natural to reach out to those closest to us for a comforting hug during periods of grief and tragedy.
8. Human beings are programmed to recover from bad events.
We are an incredibly resilient species. According to research, we are naturally wired to move on from most challenges and pain either on our own or with help.
9. Dogs are hardwired to love us.
Studies show that not only do dogs care about their human owners, they see us as part of their family. We must be doing something right as a species to receive that kind of unconditional love.
Reference: 9 Much-Needed Reminders That Humans Are Inherently Good, Lindsay Holmes, Huffington Post, July 15, 2016.