Fear Mongering

Fear mongering is perhaps the most insidious invention of man. 

In its purest form, fear is used to coerce or extort an outcome. 

Whether it is climate change, a criminal act, feeling pain, or even fear itself, fear mongering produces tremendous results.

Fear mongering is used to sway public opinion, labor agreements, and limit freedom. 

We find it in news papers, television commercials, contracts, and laws.  It fuels entire industries and accounts for billions (probably trillions?) of dollars of commerce while robbing liberty from those under its influence.

FDR had it right: 

“…let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself—nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance.  In every dark hour of our national life a leadership of frankness and vigor has met with that understanding and support of the people themselves which is essential to victory.  I am convinced that you will again give that support to leadership in these critical days.”

Fear sells.  Who's buying?