Unexplainable
Why is horror so fun?
Oct 30, 2024
Mathias Clasen and Marc Andersen, co-directors of the Recreational Fear Lab at Aarhus University, dive into the thrill of horror. They explore why we both seek and avoid fear, discussing how haunted houses and roller coasters provide unique enjoyment. Their research reveals that mild fear can enhance curiosity and fun. They also highlight how horror can serve as a tool for stress management, especially during tough times like the COVID pandemic, suggesting therapeutic benefits in facing fear through storytelling.
21:51
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Quick takeaways
- The paradox of people's attraction to horror is explored through the balance of fear, which aligns with the Goldilocks principle of enjoyment.
- Engagement with horror content may provide psychological benefits, helping individuals cope with real-life anxieties during stressful times like a pandemic.
Deep dives
The Paradox of Horror
The fascination with horror lies in the paradox of why people willingly seek out frightening experiences despite the inherent dangers associated with fear. This paradox sparks curiosity about human behavior and survival instincts, prompting questions about the evolutionary implications of our attraction to horror. Matthias Klassen's exploration of horror led him, alongside cognitive scientist Mark Anderson, to investigate why individuals enjoy experiences that evoke fear, despite their unsettling nature. Their collaboration merges literary analysis and scientific inquiry, leading to a deeper understanding of the recreational aspects of fear.
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