Across Quote by Joshua Foer
“There are two possibilities: Either the kiss is a human universal, one of the constellation of innate traits, including language and laughter, that unites us as a species, or it is an invention, like fire or wearing clothes, an idea so good that it was bound to metastasize across the globe.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Book of Human Nature, Joshua Foer, 2015
Kissing may be an innate human trait or a cultural invention that spread globally like fire or clothing.
In simple terms: Kissing could be natural or learned, spreading worldwide.
Key Takeaway
Consider both biology and culture when studying human behavior.
Themes
human behavior
culture
evolution
communication
Mood
curious
analytical
Type
anthropological
observational
When to use this quote
- anthropology research
- cross‑cultural studies
- relationship counseling
Key Concepts
innate traits
cultural diffusion
social bonding
Questions to Reflect On
- Is kissing more a product of biology or culture?
- How does cultural transmission affect perceived universals?
A Different Perspective
Some argue that universal behaviors are rarely purely innate, often shaped by environment.
