The Fascination with Fear: Understanding Our Love for Monsters and Horror
November 1, 2025 - 02:48
Professor Stephen Asma, PhD, from Columbia College Chicago, delves into the intriguing psychology behind humanity's fascination with monsters and horror. His extensive research highlights the deep-seated reasons why people are drawn to fear-inducing experiences. Asma, an authority on the history and philosophy of monsters, has penned several influential works, including On Monsters: An Unnatural History of Our Worst Fears and The Evolution of Imagination.
Through his exploration, Asma reveals that the thrill of fear can evoke a range of emotions, from excitement to catharsis, allowing individuals to confront their anxieties in a safe environment. The allure of horror and the monstrous serves not only as entertainment but also as a means of engaging with our primal instincts. Additionally, Asma has contributed to popular culture through his YouTube series, “Professor Asma’s Guide to Unusual Knowledge,” and his previous podcast, “Chinwag,” where he discussed various topics with actor Paul Giamatti. This multifaceted approach to understanding fear underscores its significance in human experience and culture.
MORE NEWS
January 15, 2026 - 02:15
Understanding Men's Reluctance to Seek TherapyWhy do men historically seek therapy less often than women? This question has sparked considerable discussion, revealing that part of the answer lies in outdated and unhelpful myths about...
January 14, 2026 - 07:11
The Evolution of Game Design: Merging Psychology with PlayGone are the days when game studios simply threw ideas at the wall to see what would stick. Much like brewing, modern game design has transformed into a more deliberate and measured process,...
January 13, 2026 - 19:36
The Unique Advantages of Those Who Remember Life Before the InternetFor individuals who experienced life before the advent of the internet, there are distinct cognitive advantages that set them apart from digital natives. Having lived in two contrasting...
January 13, 2026 - 02:25
Your Social Media Behavior: The Key to Your Online ImageThe most damaging thing on your feed isn’t the algorithm. It’s how you choose to behave on it. Recent insights from psychology reveal that certain social media habits can significantly impact...