Men fear thought as they fear nothing else on earth – more than ruin – more even than death. Thought is subversive and revolutionary, destructive and terrible, thought is merciless to privilege, established institutions, and comfortable habit. Thought looks into the pit of hell and is not afraid. Thought is great and swift and free, the light of the world, and the chief glory of man.
fearquotes
Fear is the main source of superstition, and one of the main sources of cruelty. To conquer fear is the beginning of wisdom.
cruelty / fear / superstition / wisdom
And if happiness were common, it would preserve itself, because appeals to hatred and fear, which now constitute almost the whole of politics would fall flat.
From childish fear springs the desire to externalise the ego.
Everywhere where detestable Islam has not yet driven out the ancient, profound religions of humanity with fire and sword, my ascetic results would have to fear the reproach of being trivial.
He who has lost all hope has also lost all fear.
It is impossible to found a civilization on fear and hatred and cruelty. It would never endure.
1984 / civilization / cruelty / fear / hatred
If I could drown in sleep as I drown in fear I would be no longer alive.
And yet the fear!
There is nothing bad to fear; once you have crossed that threshold, all is well. Another world, and you do not have to speak.