From naming hurricanes to throwing birthday parties for dogs, the tendency to see human traits in animals, objects, and natural forces is a deeply rooted cognitive impulse known as anthropomorphism. Science writer Justin Gregg delves into the science and psychology behind this universal phenomenon and unravels the reasons behind why people treat pets like babies, fall in love with chatbots, and talk to cars.
Drawing on surprising research and curious examples—from emotional support alligators to AI-generated companions to a woman who married her briefcase—he reveals how anthropomorphism enhances the capacity for empathy and connection but can also carry complex consequences, including its darker inverse, dehumanization.
Gregg’s book, Humanish: What Talking to Your Cat or Naming Your Car Reveals About the Uniquely Human Need to Humanize (Little, Brown and Company), is available for purchase.
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