Is it normal to view the human race in such an animal-like way?

Humans are animals. But I don't think that classification says very much, because animal life is extremely diverse and many species have very little in common with each other. "Animal" is such a vague word that it really doesn't mean anything. I don't think it's possible to honestly argue that humans aren't different. Complex, individual human behaviour is informed by our extremely complex societies, to a far greater degree than any other species. We have what psychologists call "true language", which I don't think has been observed in any other animals. We are able to think abstractly. I think it's important to remember that humans are animals, that animal life is important and valuable, and that our actions are partially motivated by the same survival instincts. But humans are different - not better, not more valuable, but different - and we shouldn't be ashamed to admit that.

I've always felt this way. I also feel we've become so dependent on technology that most of us would be eliminated by natural selection if we're forced to live in the woods. Every time i see humans fighting (especially violence), i think "animals, all of us". Every time i witness a human become unnecessarily emotional when making a decision, i think "animals". Every time i watch a Worldstar video; ANIMALS. Just because we walk upright, wear clothing, drive cars, operate computers, and believe in imaginary gods, HOW ARE WE ANY DIFFERENT FROM ANIMALS??!?? I don't get why others cannot see this. Our frontal lobes put us ahead of the game, but we are not some entirely unique species from apes. We ARE apes. People don't want to hear that. People would rather believe they are special and that an almighty Sky Daddy popped them into existence. I'm not saying i know how we came to be, but i'm not pretending to know either. Evidence points to monkeys. Where the monkeys came from? I don't know. But let's not mistreat our retarded cousins in the meantime.

You sound like a minimalist. Minimalists like high return on investment items like cellphones, refrigerators, cars, etc. Secondly, human animals fuck and have offspring. You can avoid all this fuss by joining a sperm bank.

Here is something to ponder in addition to all that's already been said; we humans live under 3 set of laws here on beautiful planet earth; there are man's laws, nature laws and God's laws. Even if we do not believe there is a God we acknowledge the fact that God does exist by not choosing to believe in God. These 3 laws does not exist[I think]in the animal kingdom and beside the size, functioning and strengths of our brain this is separates' us from animals. therefore, you have an obligation to go to your prom and be careful with Pride, do not believe for one minute that you have to dress in the most expensive get-up to go to your small victory celebration , because that is why we celebrate proms. And since we live under these 3 laws, one sub-law under 'the' law might look at you a certain way, but it will matter if you go or don't go.

Of course, because we are animals.

It's actually a very rational way to perceive our behaviour. We might be a distinctive and dominant species of ape, with idiosyncrasies and a complex social structure, but we're apes all the same.

That said, it doesn't necessarily justify a cynical or pessimistic view of the world. Yes, not everything we do is for survival, but that's because we've become so adept at surviving. We've been so successful as a species that many of us have the luxury of time to spend on activities that bring us satisfaction.

"Whats the point in drawing that picture, it doesn't benefit me or others in any way."
Because creative people gain a satisfaction from creation, and it fulfils an urge that may otherwise remain unfulfilled. Also, art is one thing that can be shared with and enjoyed by others. Art, from music to paintings to literature, might seem self-indulgent, but it can have a tremendous impact on how we feel and how we behave. So yes, it can benefit both the artist and their audience.

"Whats the point in going to the school prom, it'll be over so soon"
Well that's up to you. Part of human behaviour is engaging socially with others. Our bonds are what maintain society, and society is the reason our chances of survival are so good. Events like proms, parties etc. are all opportunities to celebrate something in a social environment. They can make people feel good, strengthen relationships, give people interesting memories and make life richer - something beyond 'just survival'.

There's nothing wrong with being a 'realist' i.e. seeing things for what they are. But being a pessimist isn't going to do you any good.