Why we feel disgust

Disgust: Biology, Culture, Cleanliness, and OCD

Ever wondered why the sight of certain foods makes you recoil, or why some rituals feel utterly essential? Some answers, I suggested last night (27th March) at the Nathaniel Cotton series of talks on Anthropology and Psychiatry: Cultural Constructs of Mental Illness, may lie in the field of the anthropology of disgust, a discipline that explores the complex interplay between our biology and cultural beliefs.

At its core, disgust is a powerful survival mechanism, an evolutionary legacy designed to protect us from harm. Think of it as your body's early warning system, triggered by potential threats like spoiled food or infectious substances. While the fundamental function – safeguarding our health – remains universal, the triggers for disgust can vary dramatically across cultures.

Imagine a plate of roasted insects. In some cultures, this is considered a delicacy; in others, it can evoke profound revulsion. This stark contrast highlights the cultural malleability of disgust. We will all have experience of the feelings of disgust about certain foods. Sometimes it is about experience but also sometimes about imagination: I showed a slide of some chocolate in the shape of dog poo – even knowing it to be chocolate I wouldn’t want to eat it  - that’s programming!

Similarly, attitudes toward bodily functions, like menstruation or death, and even the very definition of “clean,” are deeply rooted in cultural norms. For instance, in many Western societies, bodily fluids or waste are considered inherently dirty, while certain African and Asian cultures may have different interpretations or rituals around cleanliness and bodily functions.

Many societies have developed elaborate purification rituals to maintain hygiene, from routine handwashing to ceremonial cleansing. These practices are rooted in a deep-seated cultural understanding of hygiene, but it’s crucial to note that these ideas of cleanliness are not universal. What is considered hygienic or pure in one culture may be viewed as unnecessary or even repulsive in another.

When Disgust Takes Over: OCD and Cultural Anxiety

But what happens when this instinctual protective mechanism goes awry? This is where the anthropology of disgust intersects with our understanding of the mental condition Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). In OCD, disgust can manifest as intrusive thoughts about contamination, driving individuals to engage in excessive cleaning rituals or avoidance behaviours. For those with OCD, the feelings of disgust become a central part of their daily lives, often leading to significant distress.

Interestingly, cultural anxieties around cleanliness can exacerbate OCD symptoms. In cultures that place a strong emphasis on purity, such as those with rigorous cleanliness rituals or those influenced by certain religious traditions, individuals with OCD may experience heightened anxiety and more intense compulsions. The constant pressure to adhere to cultural expectations of cleanliness can create a feedback loop, where cultural norms about cleanliness heighten one’s fear of contamination, leading to further compulsions. Thoughts of contamination can lead to guilt, lack of self-worth and depression, and disgust at oneself.

A Cultural Lens on Mental Health

By examining OCD through an anthropological lens, we can gain a deeper understanding of how cultural beliefs, values, and anxieties contribute to the development and expression of the disorder. This perspective is vital for developing more effective and culturally sensitive treatment approaches. What might work for one person in one cultural context may not work for someone in another; understanding the cultural fabric that shapes their fears and behaviours can lead to more nuanced and successful interventions.

Conclusion

• Disgust is a complex emotion: It’s a blend of biological instinct and cultural learning, shaped by our environment and experiences.

• Culture shapes disgust: What we find disgusting is heavily influenced by our cultural background. From the foods we eat to our attitudes toward bodily functions, culture plays a pivotal role in determining what triggers feelings of revulsion.

• Anthropology illuminates OCD: Understanding the cultural context of disgust can provide valuable insights into mental health conditions, offering a more comprehensive understanding of disorders like OCD and informing the development of culturally appropriate treatments.

Disgust isn’t just in the mind; it can be a physical reaction. It is manifest in our facial expressions and sometimes can be visceral: hot sweats, choking, and being sick.  The anthropology of disgust invites us to explore the hidden language of our emotions, revealing the profound influence of culture on our bodies and minds. It's a reminder that even our most primal instincts are shaped by the societies we inhabit, offering valuable insights into hygiene, mental health, and the very fabric of human experience. Understanding disgust through this lens not only enhances our knowledge of human biology but also deepens our appreciation of the diverse ways cultures shape our perceptions and behaviours.