Honors Theses
Date of Award
2014
Document Type
Undergraduate Thesis
Department
Chemistry and Biochemistry
First Advisor
Susan Pedigo
Relational Format
Dissertation/Thesis
Abstract
Humans are socially driven creatures that require constant interaction. One way humans have consistently expressed their social nature since prehistory is through sharing meals. Recent studies and literature were examined in order to investigate the roots behind why sharing meals has been the most consistent method of social output. Through careful reading and analysis, reasons behind why people share meals were traced in perspective levels. The biological and molecular aspect explains how humans evolved from prehistoric primates and their similarities associated with food consumption. Genetics and food preferences also play a role by allowing humans to taste food rather than view consumption as a necessity. Social relationships and the structure of family promote eating together as a way to ensure the overall wellbeing of humans. Finally, in a larger perspective, humans share meals in every day scenarios that are deeply embedded in culture within every community.
Recommended Citation
Lee, David, "The Origins of an Everyday Behavior: Why do People Share Meals?" (2014). Honors Theses. 254.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/254
Accessibility Status
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