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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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The Science of Kissing summary
Sheril Kirshenbaum
What Our Lips Are Telling Us
11 mins
Brief summary
"The Science of Kissing" by Sheril Kirshenbaum explores the physical and emotional aspects of kissing while also delving into the cultural and historical significance behind this intimate act.
Table of Contents
The Science of Kissing
Summary of 6 key ideas
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Key idea 1 of 6
We learn to associate lip contact with love and trust early on in life.
Nearly everyone enjoys kissing, but most of us rarely stop to wonder why. The answer is deeply rooted in our biology.
One of the first physically enjoyable sensations we experience is being nursed by our mothers; the use of our lips comes naturally to us. Babies suck their thumbs even when they’re in the womb and purse their lips for nursing as soon as they’re born – the very same lip movement as kissing!
Nursing is very comforting for a baby. It usually takes place in a safe and calm environment, so the baby grows to associate soft pressure on the lips with feeling secure and loved.
Premastication, the process of feeding mouth-to-mouth, was the most practical way to feed babies and toddlers for thousands of years, which also biologically linked positive feelings with lip contact.
Premastication might sound gross to us in the modern world. However, mechanically mashed baby food is a rather recent invention, so pre-chewing food used to be the best way to transition out of breast-feeding.
Other animals like apes and birds use premastication too, and it’s still used by humans in some areas. The first known written records of the practice date back to ancient Egypt, and one study found that 39 out of 119 modern communities investigated still use premastication for feeding, as part of a ritual, for various reasons including disease prevention.
Premastication doesn’t only deepen a baby’s feelings of security, attachment and love. It also transfers the positive association of mouth-to-breast contact to mouth-to-mouth contact, further strengthening the emotional and behavioral foundation for kissing that develops later in life.
And our penchant for kissing isn’t only about feeling love; find out more in the next blinks!
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What is The Science of Kissing about?
Kissing: it’s a normal part of life. But few people understand its true significance. The Science of Kissing (2011) explains why kissing is so rooted in both human and animal biology, what happens physiologically when we do it and why it’s a lot more important than you may realize.
The Science of Kissing Review
The Science of Kissing (2011) delves into the fascinating world of kissing, exploring its importance and impact on human relationships. Here are three reasons why this book is definitely worth reading:
- With a unique blend of scientific research, personal stories, and cultural insights, it offers a captivating exploration into the art of kissing.
- By examining the neuroscience behind kissing and exploring its evolutionary origins, the book sheds light on the psychological and physiological effects of this intimate gesture.
- Through its exploration of different cultural perspectives on kissing, the book highlights the diversity and significance of this universal act of affection across the globe.
Best quote from The Science of Kissing
The first recorded use of lipstick dates back to the Sumerian region, 5,000 years ago.
—Sheril Kirshenbaum
Who should read The Science of Kissing?
- Anyone who enjoys a passionate kiss
- Students of biology, sociology or history
Categories with The Science of Kissing
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The Science of Kissing FAQs
What is the main message of The Science of Kissing?
The study of kissing reveals fascinating insights into our relationships and human behavior.
How long does it take to read The Science of Kissing?
The estimated reading time for The Science of Kissing is several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is The Science of Kissing a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Science of Kissing offers an intriguing exploration of the science behind a simple act. It's definitely worth reading!
Who is the author of The Science of Kissing?
Sheril Kirshenbaum is the author of The Science of Kissing.
What to read after The Science of Kissing?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Science of Kissing, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Hold Me Tight by Sue Johnson
- Labor of Love by Moira Weigel
- Fascinate by Sally Hogshead
- Talk by Elizabeth Stokoe
- The Curious History of Dating by Nichi Hodgson
- Slow Sex by Diana Richardson
- Urban Tantra by Barbara Carrellas
- She Comes First by Ian Kerner
- Magnificent Sex by Peggy J. Kleinplatz and A. Dana Ménard
- Love Sense by Sue Johnson