Vannevar Bush: 'Fear cannot be banished, but it can be calm and without panic it can be mitigated by reason and evaluation.'

Fear cannot be banished, but it can be calm and without panic it can be mitigated by reason and evaluation.

The quote by Vannevar Bush, "Fear cannot be banished, but it can be calm and without panic it can be mitigated by reason and evaluation," highlights the innate nature of fear and its influence on our lives. In a straightforward sense, Bush suggests that while it is impossible to completely eliminate fear, we have the capacity to manage and minimize its impact through rational thought and careful consideration. This quote holds great significance, as it urges us to confront our fears with a calm and composed mindset, enabling us to make informed decisions rather than succumbing to irrational panic.However, delving deeper into this concept, we can introduce the idea of existentialism to add an unexpected philosophical twist to the discussion. Existentialism explores the meaning and purpose of existence, emphasizing individual freedom, choice, and responsibility. By comparing and contrasting this concept with Bush's quote, we can explore the potential intersection between fear, reason, and existentialist beliefs.Existentialism asserts that individuals have the freedom to shape their own lives, and this freedom inevitably carries with it an inherent sense of fear and anxiety. In the face of limitless possibilities, we may be overwhelmed by the weight of making meaningful choices and grappling with the consequences that follow. Fear - whether it is the fear of failure, the fear of the unknown, or the fear of making the wrong decision - becomes a constant companion on the existential journey.Bush's quote aligns with existentialist principles by advocating for the calm and reasoned evaluation of fear. It acknowledges that fear cannot simply be banished, just as existentialists recognize that anxiety is an inescapable aspect of life. Yet, both perspectives propose a similar approach to navigating these fears: through rationality and thoughtful evaluation.In confronting our fears, existentialism encourages us to fully embrace and explore the complexities of existence, to live authentically and take responsibility for our choices. In this sense, fear is not something to be eliminated but rather an essential part of the human experience that can be transformed into a catalyst for growth and self-discovery. Reason and evaluation become the tools we employ to better understand our fears and make sense of our place in the world.To apply this philosophical concept to a practical example, let's consider the fear of pursuing a passion or embarking on a new career path. Existentialism would argue that this fear arises from the weight of choosing a path and the potential consequences that follow. However, by employing reason and evaluation, we can rationally assess the risks, consider our values and desires, and make a thoughtful decision rather than giving in to fear and remaining stagnant.In conclusion, Vannevar Bush's quote highlights the inevitability of fear in our lives while reminding us of our capacity to mitigate its effects through reason and evaluation. When viewed in light of existentialist principles, we can adopt a more profound understanding of fear as an integral part of the human experience. By embracing fear and using reason to evaluate our choices, we can transcend its paralyzing effects and embark on a journey of personal growth and self-realization. May this quote inspire us to approach fear with calmness, and may reason guide us towards a life lived authentically and without regrets.