In a fascinating study, researchers discovered that rats often choose to help another rat in distress rather than take a tasty treat for themselves.
When given the choice between freeing a trapped companion or eating a reward, many rats prioritized helping the other rat first. Even more surprising, some rats would only eat the treat after making sure their friend was free.
This research suggests that empathy and kindness may be more natural instincts than we previously thought — even in animals.
