The perception of cold in humans is influenced by an interplay of physiological, cultural and behavioral factors. Within this context, an intriguing observation arises: why do people from tropical countries, such as Brazil, often report feeling less cold in European countries than Europeans themselves? This perception, which at first glance may seem contradictory, can be explained by a combination of biological, social and psychological factors, including frequent exposure to air-conditioned environments in tropical climates.
Physiological and biological aspects
Although populations in tropical climates are physiologically adapted to deal with high temperatures, the human body’s responses to cold are universal. When exposed to lower temperatures, people from hot climates activate biological mechanisms such as peripheral vasoconstriction, which reduces heat loss through the skin, and thermogenesis, which increases body heat production.
Additionally, the regular exposure of Brazilians to air conditioning in places such as offices, homes and vehicles may influence the ability to adapt to cold climates. In tropical regions, where the heat is intense, the use of air conditioning is common and creates prolonged exposure to milder or even colder temperatures. This frequent exposure can condition the body to better deal with temperature variations and make the European cold relatively less uncomfortable.
Cultural and behavioral factors
Another determining factor is behavior when faced with the cold. Brazilians, when traveling to regions with colder climates, usually prepare themselves thoroughly, using appropriate clothing such as coats, gloves and thermal layers. This precaution significantly reduces the thermal impact. In addition, they avoid prolonged exposure to the open air and prefer to stay in heated environments.
In contrast, Europeans who regularly experience cold climates may be less concerned with thermal protection in moderately cold situations, considering them part of their routine. This lesser precaution, often cultural, may make the sensation of cold more evident to them compared to tropical tourists.
The impact of psychology and context
The psychological factor also plays an important role. For Brazilians, cold weather is often associated with new and pleasant experiences, such as tourist trips or leisure time, which can mitigate the perception of thermal discomfort. On the other hand, for Europeans, cold weather is an inevitable part of everyday life, often linked to obligations and discomfort, amplifying their negative perception.
Furthermore, familiarity with the use of air conditioning in tropical climates can create “psychological training” for living in lower temperatures. Air-conditioned places simulate, to a certain extent, artificially cold conditions, making the transition to the European climate less abrupt for visitors.
Conclusion
The apparent lower sensitivity of people from tropical countries, such as Brazilians, to the European cold is the result of a combination of cultural, behavioral, and psychological factors. Adequate preparation, the habit of living in air-conditioned environments, and the positive perception of cold as part of a new experience contribute to this perception. This phenomenon highlights how the interaction between biological and cultural factors shapes the way humans perceive and respond to climatic conditions, reinforcing the influence of both the environment and the social context on human adaptation.
Dr. Fabiano de Abreu Agrela Rodrigues MRSB holds a post-PhD in Neuroscience and is an elected member of Sigma Xi – The Scientific Research Honor Society (more than 200 members of Sigma Xi have received the Nobel Prize), as well as being a member of the Society for Neuroscience in the United States, the Royal Society of Biology and The Royal Society of Medicine in the United Kingdom, the European Society of Human Genetics in Vienna, Austria, and the APA – American Philosophical Association in the United States. He holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in History and Biology. He is also a Technologist in Anthropology and Philosophy, with several national and international degrees in Neuroscience and Neuropsychology. Dr. Fabiano is a member of prestigious high IQ societies, including Mensa International, Intertel, ISPE High IQ Society, Triple Nine Society, ISI-Society, and HELLIQ Society High IQ. He is the author of more than 300 scientific studies and 30 books. He is currently a visiting professor at PUCRS in Brazil, UNIFRANZ in Bolivia and Santander in Mexico. He also serves as Director of CPAH – Centro de Pesquisa e Análises Heráclito and is the creator of the GIP project, which estimates IQ through the analysis of genetic intelligence. Dr. Fabiano is also a registered journalist, having his name included in the book of records for achieving four records, one of which is for being the greatest creator of characters in the history of the press.