Why do you think people often fear what they can't explain or don't understand?

Why do you think people often fear what they can't explain or don't understand?

People resist change and are fearful that an unexplained circumstance will force them to accept change.

I think it makes people nervous and lacking control of the unknown or unexpected.

I think people feel threatened and/or vulnerable when they don’t understand or can’t get an explanation about something that concerns or troubles them. Information and understanding help us move forward. Knowledge also strengthens and supports our ability to deal with things we don’t understand.

Certainly, as already mentioned, feeling threatened, vulnerable and resistant to change. Other reasons include inability to learn about and then explain something. Sometimes complacency and accepting the status quo play a part because it’s easier to be part of the group that fears. Ridicule and rejection may prompt some people to refrain from trying to understand something they don’t understand. I just read a news article about books a school board banned. Their rationale for banning “The Bluest Eye” was consistent with other similar decisions: based on fear, ignorance, willingness to accept the status quo, and acceptance of an old narrative.

Fear of the unknown, some people are not willing to learn or try to understand what they do not know.

Fear of the unknown or the unexplained is a common human experience, rooted in several psychological and evolutionary factors. In my opinion, the greatest factor is that humans have a natural desire for control and predictability in their lives. When faced with something they can't explain or understand, it can lead to feelings of uncertainty and a loss of control. This lack of control can then lead to anxiety and fear.

Agree about fear of the unknown and how they may be affected by change. It's so sad and can often be harmful to others and their communities.