New Books in Psychology Ami Harbin, "Fearing Together: Ethics for Insecurity" (Oxford UP, 2023)
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May 7, 2023 Ami Harbin, an Associate Professor of Philosophy and Women and Gender Studies at Oakland University, dives into the complexities of fear and its ethical implications. She argues that fearing is integral to our moral lives, influencing how we relate to one another and navigate insecurity. The conversation highlights the shared experience of fear, the impact of social interactions on emotional dynamics, and the ethics of managing our fears collectively. Harbin advocates for understanding fear as a relational practice that fosters resilience and community support.
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Relational Roots of Fear
- We do not always fear actual threats; fears often reflect perceived rather than real dangers.
- Our fears are shaped relationally, heavily influenced by those we trust and interact with.
Complex Nature of Fear
- Fear consists both of causes (triggers) and objects (what is feared), which we often misidentify.
- Fear changes cognitive processing, altering perception and motivation in nuanced ways.
Displacement Illustrated by 'Hans' Case
- Freud’s case of Hans showed displacement of fear from father to horses, illustrating how we shift fear onto manageable proxies.
- Fear displacement often occurs relationally within social groups, not just individuals.
