One of the main problems in the world is that different groups
of humans have trouble communicating with one another.
Now researchers say we'd be better off if we behaved more
like our close relatives, the chimpanzees. Scientists at the
Zoological Society of London are looking for volunteers who
are willing to test out this theory by acting like chimps in
their work and home lives. They will be told to wave their
arms, brandish objects to make themselves appear large and
to assert authority over others, and bond with their groups
by grooming each other.
The researchers think these actions can resolve workplace
conflicts, help people express their emotions and strengthen
human bonds. Instead of complaining about your boss to your
fellow workers, show them how you feel by baring your teeth
or using submissive body language such as lowering your
head and crouching. A simple greeting should be replaced
with a throaty "huh huh huh" pant.
Psychologist Professor Cary Cooper says, "What I love about
this as a concept is that people don't communicate enough
to one another. What they communicate is words, not
feelings, so this kind of thing would give them access to their
emotions?Animals are more tactile and supportive, and very
much a community. Unfortunately the workplace is seeing
less of that these days."
A
secret U.S. government lab in the middle of suburbia that
may have unleashed Lyme Disease and West Nile? Even a
chimp would hoot about that!
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