Humans are scared of zombies because they tap into deep-seated fears related to death, disease, and the loss of humanity.
Here's a breakdown of why zombies elicit such a strong fear response:
The Uncanny Valley
One of the primary reasons zombies are so frightening is due to the "uncanny valley" effect. According to research, the sight of an eerie, near-human image such as a zombie triggers fear.
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Near-Human Appearance: Our brains are wired to recognize human faces and forms. Zombies, with their decaying flesh and vacant stares, possess enough human features to be recognizable, but their distorted appearance sets off alarm bells.
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Loss of Humanity: The recognizable features of a human face appear in a creature that is completely inhuman. The face we see technically has all the features that should make it recognisable to us as a human – but instead we are faced with something feral, lacking humanity.
Fear of Death and Decay
Zombies are a walking, rotting corpse which can be frightening.
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Mortality Reminder: Zombies serve as a stark reminder of our own mortality. They represent the decaying process and the inevitable end that awaits us all.
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Contagion and Disease: The concept of zombification often involves a virus or other form of contagion, sparking fears of disease outbreaks and uncontrollable epidemics.
Societal Breakdown
Zombie narratives often depict the collapse of society, leading to further fear and anxiety.
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Loss of Control: A zombie apocalypse represents a complete loss of control and the breakdown of law and order.
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Survival Instincts: Humans are forced to confront their most primal survival instincts in a world overrun by zombies.
Summary
| Fear Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Uncanny Valley | The disturbing feeling evoked by things that are almost human. |
| Death and Decay | Fear of mortality and the decaying process. |
| Societal Breakdown | Fear of chaos, loss of control, and societal collapse. |
In conclusion, the fear of zombies is a complex emotional response that is triggered by the uncanny valley effect, mortality, and loss of societal structure.
