It is my opinion that we live in a time where there is a lot of fear. I sometimes offer this explanation when people are discussing current events. Recently I was at a friends home and I mentioned my opinion that we live in fearful times as a possible explanation for why large numbers of people are engaging in certain behaviors. (is that vague enough for you?) My friend picked up a book and handed it to me. The book was "The Science of Fear" by Daniel Gardner. The book certainly offers an interesting perspective on the nature fear. I have never read anything quite like it. It may be a worthwhile read to anyone interested in human behavior.