Instinctive Nature of Fear and Its Impact on Human Thought

Fear is an instinctive emotion rooted in human evolution, designed to ensure survival in the face of threats. When danger is sensed, the amygdala activates, triggering biochemical responses that prepare the body for immediate action through fight, flight, or freeze responses, often at the expense of rational thought. In high-fear states, people react reflexively, sidelining logical analysis and decision-making. Humans uniquely respond to invisible threats—dangers that aren't directly observable but imagined or anticipated. This ability allows them to alter their behavior based on information or rumors rather than just physical cues. One manifestation of this is the "freeze response," where individuals become immobilized by abstract fears, such as social judgment or disease threats. The COVID-19 pandemic exemplifies these dynamics. Initial announcements of outbreaks prompted a global behavioral shift despite low confirmed cases or a complete understanding of the virus. This societal "freeze" occurred due to fear of an unseen menace, leading people to rely on instinctive responses rather than rational analysis. The invisibility and uncertainty surrounding the threat heightened fear, showcasing the complex interplay between emotion and cognition in human behavior.