Abstract

Like other basic human emotions, fear is the most universal emotion experienced and displayed throughout the world. This opinion paper highlights the nature of fear, its causes, origins and its coping mechanism. The emotion of fear is primarily understood as a response to a stimuli based on cognitive learning. However presence of a genetic predisposition, environmental factors, social and cultural norms cannot be denied. Presence of fear can be considered good or bad, rational or irrational. Fear in a situation can protect a person against danger; however in another instance when based on judgement or non-evaluative reasoning, it can make a person dysfunctional. The paper delves into the philosophical aspect of fear, where fear can be better understood as a force that opens the door to self-discovery and personal evolution. Emotional awareness leads to acceptance and responsibility for person’s state of being. Hence realization of fear creates the first step to conquer it. A willingness to bring about positive change can turn fear into strength. The need to conquer fear unfolds the potential for transformation.