Amy and I were discussing today whether fear is an emotion or a mental state. She believes that it is a mental state, which suprised me. I had rather thought she would support the emotional bit. I feel that it’s an emotion, and a basic one at that. The thought came back to me just moments ago because I began watching the movie “The Descent.” So far, the movie is well made and has all the makings of one scary-assed film. I’ve only just made it to the part where they’ve really gotten into the cave and things are already looking devlish. Everything so far has been setting up the appropriate atmosphere for fright, and I have to insist that it’s my emotion’s fault.
So what do you think? Is fear emotional or mental?
Our chief weapon is surprise…surprise and fear…fear and surprise…. Our two weapons are fear and surprise…and ruthless efficiency…. Our *three* weapons are fear, surprise, and ruthless efficiency…and an almost fanatical devotion to the Pope…. Our *four*…no… *Amongst* our weapons…. Amongst our weaponry…are such elements as fear, surprise…. I’ll come in again.
No one expects comments like this.
I think it is an emotion unless sustained over a long period of time. Then, I believe, it becomes a state of mind, as difficult to overcome as an allergy.