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(New York, NY) — With Valentine’s Day just days away, there is science behind the surprisingly long and complex history of the kiss. While today it’s widely seen as a symbol of romance and affection, researchers say kissing likely began as a biological behavior long before it became a cultural one.
Matilda Brindle, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Oxford, recently told CBS News that kissing may date back as far as 21 million years. One theory suggests that getting close to another person’s face allows humans to subconsciously assess pheromones, evaluate immune system compatibility, and determine whether a potential partner is a good biological match. Historical records show that kissing was practiced in ancient civilizations including Mesopotamia and India, where it appeared in texts thousands of years ago. Over time, what may have started as an evolutionary instinct evolved into a social ritual—one that now spans cultures, traditions, and, especially on Valentine’s Day, romance.
In addition, animals have their own way of kissing. Brindle says polar bears have a very intense way of kissing, with foamy muzzle-to-muzzle kisses. Also, prairie dogs have more softer kisses. She says, “They seem quite sweet, while the polar bears are extremely intense.”
