Why we can't resist a viral baby hippo

Are you obsessed with a particular viral baby hippo? You're not alone – I mean, who can resist those big eyes and sturdy little legs? It's no wonder we all flock to Moo Deng, the stress-relieving hippo of the internet. This little girl has become everyone's emotional support animal.

Let's face it: Life has been stressful lately, to say the least. We want everything that happens to make us smile. Enter Moo Deng, the adorable baby pygmy hippo from Thailand.

Moo Deng's playful antics have taken the internet by storm, becoming a viral sensation and melting hearts worldwide. Even “Saturday Night Live” got in on the fun when Colin Jost interviewed Moo Deng during his “Weekend Update” segment (you can watch it here). It seems we could all use a dose of feel-good content these days – and what's better than a baby hippo?

But beyond the social media memes, there's a real psychology behind why Moo Deng, and humor in general, resonates so deeply with us. Whether it's through viral animal videos, a funny one-liner on SNL, or just a funny meme sent by a friend, humor is crucial to connecting with others and dealing with stress.

So what happens in our brains when we laugh at a baby hippo or share a joke online? Let's dive into the science behind humor, social relationships, and why we're drawn to such content.

Why humor is essential for social contacts

Developmental psychologists have long studied the role of humor in social relationships. Humor is one of the most powerful tools we have to connect with others. Laughter acts as a social glue, helping to build bonds, relieve tension and create a shared experience.

Evolutionarily, humor likely evolved as a way for early humans to navigate their complex social environments and increase their chances of survival (Gervais & Wilson, 2005). Think of it this way: When two people laugh together, they are more likely to work together and trust each other.

Today, this could have a different impact – often through viral content. With the rise of social media, we have entered a new era of connection. Although we still physically interact with others, we also engage in what psychologists call “parasocial relationships” – one-sided relationships in which viewers form emotional bonds with people (or in this case, hippos) they see online or in the media ( Horton & Wohl, 1956). These relationships can feel incredibly real, even if they are completely virtual.

Moo Deng's rise to fame can be seen as an example of how parasocial relationships emerge through mass communication. Just like we do when we watch celebrities or influencers, people bond over shared experiences watching this hippopotamus. It becomes a shared source of joy and creates a communal experience without ever leaving the confines of your screen.

The cognitive and emotional benefits of humor

Humor isn't just about making us feel connected; it also has some serious cognitive and emotional benefits. From a developmental perspective, humor plays a critical role in helping children navigate the complexities of social life. Playful teasing and jokes allow us to learn social norms, express individuality, and form bonds with peers (Martin, 2007). But we don’t grow out of that as we get older – humor is vital to connecting with others and managing our emotions.

Research shows that humor can be a powerful coping mechanism during difficult times, providing us with a mental escape and allowing us to distance ourselves from our challenges (even if only for a short time). Viral content like Moo Deng's videos can therefore serve as a mini psychological vacation – a moment to laugh, smile and forget about the heavier aspects of life.

Moo Deng and the power of viral content

Moo Deng's story is perhaps even more interesting because it ties directly into larger conversations about conservation and the environment. Moo Deng was born at a zoo in Thailand where efforts are underway to raise awareness of the endangered species of pygmy hippopotamus.

While the viral videos are light and entertaining, they also have the potential to spark deeper conversations about conservation, animal welfare and environmental protection. In this way, viral content can serve a dual purpose: providing much-needed entertainment while educating and inspiring action on important global issues.

Humor plays a key role in this process, making important information more accessible and engaging. When we laugh, we are more open to new ideas and more willing to engage with content that might otherwise seem ponderous or distant. This is one reason why comedians like Colin Jost on SNL's “Weekend Update” often use humor to talk about serious topics – laughter breaks down barriers and makes difficult conversations a little easier.

The science behind why we love funny animal videos

It's no secret that funny animal videos go viral. But why exactly do we love them so much?

The answer lies in a branch of psychology known as incognito science – or, more simply, the unconscious processes that govern our behavior. When we watch a funny video, our brain's reward system activates dopamine, the neurotransmitter responsible for feelings of pleasure and satisfaction (Mobbs et al., 2003). In short, watching Moo Deng frolic in the water could give our brains a quick jolt of happiness that we'll want to share with others.

This is one of the reasons why certain videos spread so quickly on social media. When we come across something that makes us feel good, we want to share that feeling with our friends, creating a positive ripple effect. And in a world where bad news seems to dominate our feeds, these moments of joy are more important than ever.

Find humor in everyday life

Ultimately, Moo Deng's viral fame is more than just a passing internet trend – it's a reminder of the power of humor and the importance of shared experiences. Whether it's through a baby hippo video, a funny SNL skit, or a funny meme, humor brings us together, strengthens our relationships, and gives us the emotional boost we all need.

So next time you're scrolling through your feed and come across an adorable clip of Moo Deng, don't just enjoy it, share it. In today's world, we can all use a little more laughter and connection.