Every time one of my dogs does something completely normal and definitely not surprising, I usually say, “Who’s a good boy?”
You see, even though I am aware that my animals understand or pay attention to less than one percent of what I say, I simply can’t help but talk to them.
Of course, I am aware that I am not alone in wanting to communicate with my animals; the vast majority of pet owners engage in daily communication with their animals, if only because it feels natural.
If you fall into the category of people who do communicate with their pets, I have good news for you: you are probably smarter than your peers.
This ground-breaking knowledge comes from a cool new study from the University of Chicago, whose findings show that the tendency to attribute humanlike emotions to inanimate objects, such as talking, is founded in intelligence and creativity rather than stupidity.
According to Nicholas Epley, one of the scientists involved in the study, the phenomenon is called anthropomorphism and is a “natural byproduct of the tendency that makes humans the only intelligent species on this planet.”
Naturally, as we mature in life, we tend to give up habits like openly interacting with non-human objects. In our early years, talking with toys, other inanimate objects, and even imaginary friends is actively encouraged. However, by the time we are adults, this habit has typically been ingrained in us (how frequently do you see a coworker talking to his desk without using expletives?).
The study does highlight a distinct distinction between our pets and the inanimate. The study at hand claims that talking to your animals is a natural, normal thing because of the close relationship you share with them and that it demonstrates how your brain should be working.
We know, that practically makes all of us geniuses, since if you’re anything like me you’ll take talking to your dog to a whole new level. Still, it’s nice to know, and I’m sure your animal-loving friends will be happy to hear it too!
Do you talk to your dog or cat or other pet regularly? If so let us know in the comments box.
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I work at home and my only companions are my dogs. I talk to them all the time. One understands more than the other but they both like to hear me run my mouth.
Absolutely & he listens & knows an awful lot!
I love a chat with my pet chickens! And I swear they understand me and do as I say! 😂
Yes, I do. And my dog, a she-dog, understand me quite well. I do not need to say things twice. Not orders, but talks like ´I am sad and she comes seats at my feet, kooking at me with very, very sweet eyes. I love her, so much as she loves me.
I knew I was intelligent…now I have proof 😻