why do we love to feed animals

[vikrant]

A tourist feeding snacks to birds ,wild animals is not that uncommon scene ,even if its not recommended to feed snacks to these animals ,cause the primary diet of these animals consists of protein .

then why do we love to feed animals ,tourists always feed animals in zoo despite of the rules .

does this desire of feeding animals{other living beings} is related somehow to supremacy of our species on others or its just one of our hobbies.because we are not helping these animals by feeding snacks instead we are replacing their protein rich diet and disturbing the ecological < insert word here for balance >

now the thread is not about discusing ecology,its about discussing desire of feeding

[rez]

I believe that is an example of Humanity, what sets us apart from animals.

A religious person would lay this compulsion on God's creation of our benevolent souls.

Some others might say that in exchange for a little food we get that warm fuzzy feeling of attempted altruism which we love so much.

Both point to the fact that Humans have an ingrained element of humanity... suprisingly

[Stalins Ghost]

Interesting topic!

I guess from one perspective, its an extension of our desire to be liked. I think we like the idea that by feeding or helping an animal, it will somehow build up a kind of affection for the person: Even if the case may be that it doesn't work like that, I think thats part of it. I guess it is, as rez points out, an element of our humanity.

Having taken control of the earth, maybe we feel responsible for the animals that occupy it, and thus, Old Women must get kicks out of feeding the pigeons bread, knowing that it indicates their supremacy over their feathered souls

Or something like that. It's simple but another alternative is that people like "cute", "fuzzy" animals, so like to treat them!