The Unknown and the Stranger

Fear of the unknown is instinctual, as we discussed last week. Historically, fear has helped many creatures, including humans, survive across generations. Unlike most animals, humans can confront and embrace fear and uncertainty. Fire is a prime example: it's frightening, yet it's present in nearly every home. Perhaps burning a candle on your desk or lighting more candles on Sundays. Fire is one of the most volatile and potentially dangerous natural forces. While most species instinctively avoid fire, humans sometimes welcome it. Many fears stem from unfamiliarity; what seems threatening initially often isn't as dangerous as it appears. Our tendency to reject the new or different stems from not understanding it, leading us to avoid risks that might otherwise be worth taking.