Why do people ship so much?

The Allure of Hypothetical Happiness: Why We Ship So Much

In the sprawling landscapes of fandom, nestled amongst fanfiction, fanart, and heated online debates, lies the deeply human phenomenon of “shipping.” It’s more than just hoping two characters get together; it’s an emotional investment, a dedication to the hypothetical happiness of fictional individuals. But why do we ship so much? What drives this fervent desire to see specific characters romantically intertwined? The answer, it seems, lies in a complex interplay of longing, projection, and a fundamental human need for connection.

At its core, shipping is fuelled by a powerful desire to witness connection. We’re drawn to the sparks that fly between characters, the subtle glances, the shared moments of vulnerability. We see potential in these interactions, a promise of something deeper and more meaningful. In a world often characterized by isolation and fleeting encounters, the possibility of genuine connection, even in a fictional realm, is incredibly appealing. We see characters who understand each other, support each other, and challenge each other, and we desperately want to see that potential blossom into something beautiful.

Furthermore, shipping is often deeply intertwined with our own longings for companionship. We project our own desires for love, acceptance, and belonging onto these imagined pairings. The characters become vessels for our own unfulfilled romantic aspirations. We see in their (potential) relationship a reflection of what we ourselves crave: a partner who truly sees us, accepts us, and loves us unconditionally. We imagine the comfort, the security, and the joy that these characters could find in each other, and that vicarious experience offers a sense of satisfaction, even if it’s only temporary.

Think about the popular tropes that often fuel shipping: enemies to lovers, friends to lovers, star-crossed lovers. These scenarios resonate because they tap into universal human experiences of overcoming obstacles to find love. They offer a narrative of hope and perseverance, suggesting that even amidst conflict and adversity, connection is possible. We root for these characters not just because we like them, but because their potential relationship represents a triumph over difficulty, a testament to the power of love.

Beyond personal projection, shipping also allows us to explore different facets of ourselves. By engaging with these fictional relationships, we can safely experiment with our own romantic ideals and preferences. We can consider what we value in a partner, what kinds of relationships we find fulfilling, and what kind of love story we ultimately desire. Shipping becomes a form of emotional exploration, a way to understand ourselves and our own romantic desires.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that shipping can also be a source of conflict. Differing opinions on which characters belong together can lead to passionate debates and even animosity within fandoms. This intensity stems from the deeply personal nature of shipping; when we invest emotionally in a pairing, we naturally feel protective and passionate about it.

Ultimately, the reason we ship so much boils down to a fundamental human desire for connection and happiness. We see in these fictional relationships the potential for something beautiful and fulfilling, and we invest our emotions in the hope that it will come to fruition. Shipping allows us to explore our own longings for companionship, experiment with our romantic ideals, and find solace in the imagined happiness of others. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring human need to believe in the possibility of love, even in the most fantastical of settings.