wow what a read, very interesting. what i will say is that i believe my snake recognizes me, she's been handled very consistently, 1-2 hours every night for as long as i had her, with the exception of after she eats or when she is shedding. but ill say this. i get the feeling she likes to be handled. it seams she knows as soon as her light clicks off and she hears the clips of her top coming off she slithers right to the top. i usually put my arm in she will get her whole body on my arm and sit motionless until i take her out. so do i think she "loves" Me. probably not lol, does she recognize me? i believe so. does she enjoy being handled and exploring? yes. my .02