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Cannibalism, the act of consuming the flesh of one's own species, has a complex and multifaceted history. While it is overwhelmingly taboo and illegal in most societies today, anthropological and historical evidence suggests it has occurred for various reasons throughout human history. These reasons can broadly be categorized into survival, ritualistic, and warfare-related practices.

In dire survival situations, such as famines or extreme isolation, desperation has sometimes led individuals or groups to resort to cannibalism to avoid starvation. This is often referred to as survival cannibalism. Ritualistic cannibalism, on the other hand, was often intertwined with spiritual beliefs, warfare, or social customs. It could be practiced to gain the perceived strength or spiritual essence of the consumed individual, as part of funeral rites, or as a demonstration of dominance over enemies.

The prevalence and specific forms of cannibalism varied significantly across different cultures and time periods. While often sensationalized, it's important to approach the topic with an understanding of the diverse social, environmental, and psychological contexts in which it may have occurred. Modern ethical standards and legal frameworks universally condemn cannibalism due to profound moral objections and public health concerns.