What is Instinct?
Instinct is a natural and innate tendency that allows a person to act automatically without conscious thought or reflection This kind of behavior is usually related to self-preservation or survival and is exhibited in many animals and humans. It is often referred to as a built-in program that compels an individual to take action in particular ways when faced with certain situations.
Instinct is the result of evolution and serves as the basis for instinctive behaviors. This kind of behavior is innate, meaning it is embedded in us genetically, and is not learned through experience or socialization. It is a reflex-like reaction that is triggered in an animal or human when prompted by a particular stimulus such as hunger, fear, or aggression. Instinct can be seen in many different species and can range from wariness of new or unknown objects in animals, to survival skills such as the ability to fly in birds.
Though instinct can be seen in a variety of animals, humans are the only species that have the ability to override their instinctive responses. This enables us to use our intelligence, reasoning, and wisdom to make decisions rather than solely relying on instinctive reactions.
Five Best Examples of Instinct
1. A mother’s instinct to protect her child – When a mother is faced with a potentially dangerous situation, she will often instinctually react in a manner that will ensure her child’s safety. This can range from an instinctive urge to shield the child, to an instinctive burst of strength that allows the mother to act quickly and decisively.
2. The instinct to couple up – Humans and other species have an instinctive urge to find a mate and create a pair bond. This instinct is found in many vertebrates and is believed to be a way to ensure the continuity of the species.
3. Migration in animals – Animals such as birds, dragonflies, and fish are known to migrate to different habitats each year. This instinctive behavior is believed to be a result of evolution and is believed to be a way to find food and escape harsh climates or predators.
4. The instinct to flee from danger – When animals or humans are faced with danger, they will often instinctually react in a manner that will allow them to flee from the threat. This instinct is usually accompanied by an adrenaline surge that gives the individual the strength and speed to escape.
5. The instinct to hoard resources – Many species have the instinctual urge to hoard resources, such as food and shelter. This behavior is believed to have evolved as a way to ensure survival, as finding or creating these resources can be time-consuming and dangerous.