Fear is a powerful force, but history and great thinkers remind us that most fears never materialize. Franklin D. Roosevelt famously declared, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself,” urging courage in the face of uncertainty. C.S. Lewis offered wisdom on confronting fear with faith and reason, while Abigail Shrier explored how modern culture often weaponizes fear to limit freedom. By embracing courage and hope, we can build a better society, committing to resilience, personal growth, and the pursuit of truth.
The Power of Words: FDR and the Call to Overcome Fear
Franklin D. Roosevelt, during his first inaugural address in 1933, famously declared, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” This statement, made during the depths of the Great Depression, was meant to inspire hope and action in a nation paralyzed by economic hardship. Roosevelt understood that fear, more than actual circumstances, can cripple individuals and societies alike.
His message remains relevant today. Studies show that most of our anxieties never come to pass. Psychological research indicates that approximately 85% of the things people worry about never happen. Roosevelt’s words challenge us to recognize that fear often stems from the unknown and that courage is the antidote to stagnation. By embracing action instead of anxiety, we take control of our future.
Listen to Roosevelt’s historic speech
Wisdom from C.S. Lewis: Faith and Fear in Uncertain Times
C.S. Lewis, a renowned Christian intellectual, addressed fear in his writings, particularly in his essay, “On Living in an Atomic Age.” In an article featured in The Stream, Wisdom from C.S. Lewis on Life in This Age of Fear, Lewis argued that while threats exist, succumbing to fear robs us of the ability to live meaningfully. He emphasized that fear is not new—every generation has faced its own looming disaster, from plagues to world wars.
Lewis advocated for living life fully despite uncertainties. He encouraged people to pursue knowledge, kindness, and purpose instead of wasting life in worry. Fear, according to Lewis, distorts reality and makes people more susceptible to manipulation. By replacing fear with faith and reason, individuals can navigate uncertain times with clarity and strength.
Watch an analysis of C.S. Lewis on fear
Abigail Shrier on Freedom in an Age of Fear
In The Free Press, journalist Abigail Shrier discusses how fear has been used as a tool of control in modern society. Her article, Abigail Shrier on Freedom in an Age of Fear, explores how cultural and political institutions exploit fear to shape behavior and suppress dissenting opinions. She highlights that in today’s world, people are often discouraged from speaking truthfully due to the potential backlash. 
Shrier argues that fear-based thinking leads to self-censorship, loss of personal freedom, and a weakened society. She calls for individuals to reclaim their autonomy by embracing intellectual courage. True freedom, she insists, comes not from avoiding risk but from facing fear head-on and standing up for truth and justice.
Watch Abigail Shrier’s discussion on freedom and fear
Takeaway: Embracing Courage for a Brighter Future
Courage is not the absence of fear but the decision to move forward despite it. History, philosophy, and modern analysis all reinforce that fear is often an illusion, preventing us from living fully. Roosevelt, Lewis, and Shrier each remind us that fear must not dictate our lives. Instead, we must commit to hope, action, and the betterment of society.
By fostering resilience, standing for truth, and striving for a future built on integrity and bravery, we honor the principles of freedom and human flourishing. Fear will always exist, but courage is what defines those who shape history and change the world for the better.