Is fear simply not understanding?

Question

Something unknown...

Answer 1

While fear is often caused by the unknown, it's more directly linked to control. We tend to fear that which we can't control more so then that which we don't understand. True, a lack of understanding about something will lead people to do some pretty irrational things (like be afraid of it, or call it 'god') but you have to look past that ignorance and find the root. That root is control.

To use the skydiving example another user posted. Sure, you know the physics, and all that and you can convince yourself that you've done everything right, but there is always the chaos factor which tells you that something could still go wrong. That something is an unknown factor, outside of your control.

Answer 2

Understanding can often be the cause of fear ie;
When a felon hears a knock at the door and is wanted for a serious charge.
When a mugger pulls a gun on someone.
When a child is late home etc
Fear itself is the rising of body in pulse, blood flow, thought pattern, and breathing caused by the adrenal glands which have released extra adrennalin to the body so that it can cope with what is happening.
If the situation becomes regular, the mind learns to identify with the event, and in its familiarity it doesnt seem so scary, but nevertheless the body itself responds with the same increase as if fear were the driving force.
Fear itself becomes a moment when the mind is unable to remain calm, and the problem is immediate.
It passes

Answer 3

I was always told that fear is False Evidence Appearing Real. S I'd say yes it is simply not understanding something enough to realize that there's nothing to be afraid of, or, being scared of the unknown.

Answer 4

In some cases I suppose. I also think its more like not understanding the unverifiable. Example: Death I personally think most fear death because its unverifiable as to what it's like or what will really happen. Nobody's been dead for a month and then came back to explain how everything is, its more based on a assumption. "Death by plane crash is quick and painless" some say, but really whose can verify that? I'm not sure how this would apply to people with fear of animals or other items though. Thats why I said some cases.

Answer 5

Fear is both. Obviously we all know that the unknown is always scary; but know too much brings fear also. For example; knowing that there are germs everywhere, may make people have fear of touching things; etc. The old saying is true the main thing about fear is fear itself; it comes in all shapes and forms.

Answer 6

Yes and no. sometimes fear is because of the unknown and a lack of understanding. But, it can also be the result of understanding. A child can be burned because s/he does not understand fire and does not fear getting burned. An adult keeps out of the fire because s/he understands that fire burns and fears that.

Answer 7

Yes, truth and understanding can conquer all fear.

The main types of fear I would distinguish
* fear of the unknown
* fear of change, loss of control, or oppression
* fear of conflict

I find that all problems and divisions in the world stem from one or more of these fears.

Answer 8

NO! Fear is an emotion that has nothing to do with understanding. Lack of understanding may cause fear, but fear is not always a lack of understanding.

If I go to jump out of an airplane, I understand all of the physics of skydiving and understand all of the built in safety features with a reserve chute, etc, etc, but I will still be afraid.

Answer 9

Yes I do believe the unknown is a big fear. Yet you can try and understand why this fear is bigger than you are.To conquer fear is far more understandable. Once you understand then there is no fear.

Answer 10

To me fear is a feeling of agitation and anxiety caused by a real or perceived danger.I have a fear of bee's because I understand the consequences of getting stung by one.So no,I don't feel fear is caused by a lack of understanding.Ignorance however causes a lack of understanding.