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I have read that there are two fears that cannot be…

“I have read that there are two fears that cannot be trained out of us: the startle reaction upon hearing an unexpected noise, and vertigo. I would like to add a third, to wit, the rapid and direct approch of a known killer” quote by Yann Martel
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“I have read that there are two fears that cannot be trained out of us: the startle reaction upon hearing an unexpected noise, and vertigo. I would like to add a third, to wit, the rapid and direct approch of a known killer”

Yann Martel

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

He lists innate fears—startle, vertigo, and confronting a known killer—and notes they resist training.

In simple terms: Some primal fears persist despite training.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and respect innate fear limits.

Themes

fear instinct survival psychology

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical psychological

When to use this quote

  • dangerous encounters
  • stress management
  • combat training

Key Concepts

human behavior risk perception evolutionary psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you prepare for fears that can’t be trained away?
  • What coping strategies help with unavoidable dread?
A Different Perspective

Training can’t eliminate all fear, only manage it.

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