Research shows that even partial ostracism is quickly detected, and that lacking information that others in your group seem to have undermines not one but four fundamental human needs: the need for belonging and connection to others, self-esteem, the need for a sense of control and effectiveness, and the need for meaningful work.

FORBES: The Hidden Dangers of Leaving Someone Out of the Loop

Allen McConnell, a psychology professor at Miami University in Ohio who studies pet owners' behavior, said those who opt for animal preservation can be motivated by grief, a need for belonging and anthropomorphism the act of ascribing human attributes to animals or even inanimate objects.

NPR: Mo. Taxidermist Preserves Man's Best Friend

As globalization accelerates, people feel ever more the need to protect their identities and sense of belonging.

CNN: Opinion: Timbuktu tomb attack is an attack on our humanity