Why do Humans Stare at Fire?
Scientific aspects of primal magic of fire
I like to say every fire tells a story. All people in the world are staring at it to know that story. But it’s not for us to know. Before you know it, several minutes have passed and you forgot what you were doing before staring into the fire. You can stare as long as you can, but it still will be a secret. Maybe one of the last secrets on Earth.
Archeologists & Anthropologists
Archeological evidence says that controlled use of fire started with Homo Erectus nearly two million years ago. According to John Gowlett, a University of Liverpool archeologist mastering the art of creating and controlling the fire opened the door for our brain to evolve.
After the sun goes down, our ancestors spend time asleep or inactive. The creation of artificial light enabled the hominid brain to adapt and evolve to the point where humans now remain alert and active for over 16 hours a day.
There is something about the fire. It’s impossible not looking at it when it is around. Always in the center of attention — starting from candles, bonfires, fireplaces ending at huge forest fires. People are gathering around it, talking about it, or sitting in silence.
