Abstract:

This text proposes a comparative analysis between the "Universe 25" experiment by John B.Calhoun and aspects of contemporary Western society. Through symbolic and conceptual parallels,we investigate how factors such as intense urbanization, hyperconnectivity, material abundance, andtransformations in social roles have impacted human behavior, social cohesion, and psychologicalwell-being.

Keywords: Universe 25, Western society, urbanization, behavior, social psychology, Calhoun

Introduction

The "Universe 25" experiment, conducted by John B. Calhoun during the 1960s and1970s, consisted of creating a controlled and idealized environment for mice, where there was noshortage of resources or external threats. Paradoxically, the population collapsed, exhibitingbehavioral and social dysfunctions until extinction. This article analyzes how this experiment,although conducted on rodents, can serve as a metaphor for understanding certain trends andchallenges in current Western society.

The Universe 25 Experiment

Calhoun created a self-sufficient and safe space for a population ofmice. Initially, there was stable growth. Over time, abnormal behaviors emerged: aggression,isolation, parental failure, and the appearance of so-called "beautiful ones"—mice who onlydedicated themselves to grooming and appearance, avoiding interaction with the community. Thecycle ended with the death of all individuals, even in the presence of abundant resources.

Parallels with Contemporary Western Society

Demographic Density and Urban Stress: Growing urbanization has led to the formation of megacities, where intense coexistence andoverstimulation are sources of stress, anxiety, and isolation. Just like the overcrowded mice, humansin dense environments tend to develop defensive and dehumanized behaviors.

Crisis of Social Roles and Community Fragmentation: The redefinition of traditional structures (family, gender, religion) is a civilizational advance but alsochallenges social cohesion. The loss of reference points can generate subjective insecurity andweaken community bonds.

Hedonism, Consumerism, and Existential Void: In the experiment, even with abundance, the rodents lost interest in interaction. In Western society,hyperconsumption and constant entertainment coexist with epidemics of depression and anxietydisorders, reflecting a similar existential void.

The "Beautiful Ones" and Digital Narcissism: The behavior of the "beautiful ones" can metaphorically be associated with today's digital culture,centered on image, aesthetic performance, and validation through likes. There is a shift frommeaningful interaction to superficial exhibitionism.

Symbolic Violence and Ethical Collapse: The increase in aggression among the mice finds its parallel in the growing intolerance, hate speech,and polarization in today’s societies. The erosion of ethical and institutional pacts is a symptom of acollective crisis of trust.

Limitations of the Analogy: Although thought-provoking, the comparison between an experiment onrodents and human societies requires caution. The cultural, psychological, and symbolic complexityof humanity makes any analogy necessarily incomplete. Still, as a metaphor, "Universe 25" sheds lighton urgent contemporary issues.

Final Considerations: "Universe 25" should not be read as prophecy but as a symbolic warning.Material abundance does not guarantee collective well-being. Sustaining life in society requirespurpose, empathy, symbolic boundaries, and spaces for cultivating meaningful bonds. Reflection onthis experiment may help us rethink priorities and paths toward healthier coexistence.

References

Bauman, Z. (2000). Liquid modernity. Cambridge, UK: Polity Press.

Calhoun, J. B. (1962). Population density and social pathology. Scientific American, 206(2), 139–148.

Fromm, E. (1976). To have or to be? New York, NY: Harper & Row.

Han, B. C. (2015). The burnout society. Stanford, CA: Stanford University Press.

OpenAI. (2025). What is the relationship between Universe 25 and modern Western society? [AImodel]. OpenAI. https://chat.openai.com/

(PDF) Universe 25 and Contemporary Western Society: A Comparative Analysis. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/390985821_Universe_25_and_Contemporary_Western_Society_A_Comparative_Analysis [accessed Apr 28 2025].