Why are people superstitious?

Scientists who give or say superstition occur in many different groups of people, especially those who are anxious, and this phenomenon even exists in the animal kingdom.

Superstition seems to connect with humanity throughout history and in all different cultural traditions. Even in modern times, superstition still prevails in people's consciousness.

Although the brain possesses sophisticated structure, modern technology and scientific life, humanity is still superstitious, believing in unfounded things.

'A US survey showed that about half of the population said they felt quite superstitious. In a 2007 poll, 13% of Americans felt uncomfortable on the 13th floor of the hotel, 9% would request a transfer to the living room if needed ' , Live Science quoted Stuart Vyse, teacher. Professor of Psychology at Connecticut College.

The Nazar charm is commonly used in the Middle East with the belief that it can repel "malicious eyes" from envy and greed.(Photo: Live Science)

' The root of superstition is lack of control . People always want better control in insecure situations. When meeting something important but not sure, superstition will be used to fill the gap of fear and make us feel better , 'Vyse said.

Superstition exists popular and diverse in different groups of people, from ancient tribes often used talismans to achieve their own goals, to modern people, athletes, celebrities.

It is easy to list some oddly believable celebrities like painter Pablo Picasso who kept his fingernails and hair, actress Jennifer Aniston always steps on the plane with her right foot first, or Chris Martin always brushed his teeth before appearing on stage, and Cameron Diaz tapped on the wood all day .

Such actions may more or less cause people to think of mental symptoms, behavioral disorders. However, there is little scientific evidence that confirms the link between superstition and mental illness.

'There is no direct connection between superstition and mental illness,' Vyse said.

According to scientists, superstition affects different people on different levels.Women tend to be more superstitious . People who are often anxious, depressed or feel that they do not own fate, are more likely to be superstitious.

Even people with rigid minds can fall into superstition in some cases. Socialization also plays an important role, if we are in a superstitious family, we will most likely become part of that belief.

Although there is an unreasonable basis, superstition is still useful in some circumstances. Superstition can be beneficial as well as harmful depending on the purpose of use and the intensity of human trust.

'Superstition brings confidence to people, helps promote performance in activities that require skills, such as golfing. However, if superstitious superstition, overwhelms your own efforts, as in gambling games, can harm people who trust it , 'Vyse said.

In addition, some experiments show that superstition not only happens in humans but also in animals.