In a recent lab experiment done to rats by the researchers from the University of Chicago, these creatures displayed human-like empathy and looked out for fellow rodents in times of distress such as helping each other to get away from restraint. And they sure as heck can resist even the alluring temptations of chocolate!

A cage which had a restraint was set up by the researchers. The restraint was composed of a blocked tube with a door that could be opened from the outside.

They placed one rat inside the restraint and the other was allowed to roam freely around the cage. At first, the free rat showed "emotional contagion" which is normally seen in humans and even animals. It is when one feels the distress undergone and felt by another.  This becomes apparent by freezing or helplessly running about.

The free rat eventually calmed down and then tried manipulating the door, soon learning how to open it to free its partner. From that point on, the rat instantly worked on freeing its fellow rat.  The researchers described this as "empathy-driven helping behavior."

Stated in the researchers' conclusions is the fact that a rat would liberate its cage mate even if they were not permitted to mingle afterwards, something the rats would normally consider as a reward.

And, the rat did this act of compassion in spite of being persuaded with loads of chocolate! It would liberate its partner first before sharing the chocolates, even when it could have devoured the treats all by himself.

Inbal Ben-Ami Bartal, the lead author, said "There was no other reason to take this action except to terminate the distress of the trapped rats."

Since the rats repeated the act, it "basically means that this action is rewarding to the rat." The research also revealed that female rodents were more likely to have this behavior in comparison to male rats.

Isn't it just astonishing that rats can refuse chocolate for the love of fellow rodents? Now, it got me questioning my morals!  Ha Ha

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Joanna Maligaya

Staff Writer/Content Developer at Chocolate University Online

Ever since she can remember, Joanna has always considered chocolate as the ultimate food for her soul. She believes in the saying, “9 out of 10 people love chocolate, and the 10th always lies.”

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