Thursday, July 09, 2020

UChicago study shows 'Bystander Effect' not exclusive to humans


Interesting article.

https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2020-07/uocm-uss070720.php


News Release 8-Jul-2020
University of Chicago Medical Center



A rat is less likely to help a trapped companion if it is with other rats that aren't helping, according to new research from the University of Chicago that showed the social psychological theory of the "bystander effect" in humans is present in these long-tailed rodents.

The study, titled "The Bystander Effect in Rats," also demonstrated that in the presence of other potential helper rats, rats are more, rather than less, likely to help. Whether helping is facilitated or suppressed depends on the circumstances rather than on personal temperament or morals, a finding with implications for human society. The research, published in the July 8 issue of Science Advances, builds off previous research on rat empathy.

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