Human cannibalism evokes a profound sense of dread and has become a recurring theme in horror narratives. From zombies to infamous serial killers, the notion of being consumed by another human is unsettling. What drives someone to such an extreme act of desperation or moral decay?

Cannibalism, defined as consuming an individual of the same species, might horrify us, but it is surprisingly prevalent in the animal kingdom and still occurs among some humans today. It’s possible that at this very moment, cannibalism is being practiced somewhere in the world.

Historically, humans have turned to cannibalism for various reasons, including religious rituals and sexual motivations. In contrast, animals engage in cannibalism instinctively, without the need for justification. Species as diverse as hippos, bears, toads, and scorpions partake in this behavior.

Could it be that, if faced with extreme circumstances, any of us could potentially