Is it good to be afraid sometimes? SM and Jordy Cernik, two of the only people to ever have been diagnosed with an inability to feel fear, have warned that it is no blessing in disguise.
The woman who has no sense of fear
Frightfully important: A sense of fear is actually an advantage because it is a survival mechanism that helps you to recognise and avoid dangerous situations and therefore protects you from harm. Comprehension quiz
-
The word “boon” most closely means:
A: A burden
B: A disadvantage
C: A benefit
D: A common problem
-
Which word is the closest synonym for “frightening” as used in this context?
A: Relaxing
B: Terrifying
C: Effortless
D: Inspiring
-
Add the correct punctuation (capital letters and full stop) to this sentence:
the scientists were fascinated by the discovery of SMs condition
-
According to the article, which part of the brain is responsible for processing fear and can be destroyed by Urbach-Wiethe disease?
A: The adrenal gland
B: The cortisol
C: The amygdala
D: The cerebrum
-
What is one major warning or disadvantage that people like Jordy Cernik, who cannot feel fear, give about their condition?
A: They are constantly bored.
B: They are unable to feel joy, excitement, or fear.
C: They cannot sleep well because of the lack of adrenaline.
D: They miss the feeling of adrenaline after exercising.
-
What is your view on why fear is an essential part of life for almost all animals?
Answers
Tap to reveal
1: C, 2: B, 3: The scientists were fascinated by the discovery of SM's condition., 4: C, 5: B, 6: Your views!
1: C, 2: B, 3: The scientists were fascinated by the discovery of SM's condition., 4: C, 5: B, 6: Your views!
Glossary
The Shard - The Shard, also referred to as the Shard London Bridge and formerly London Bridge Tower, is a 72-storey mixed-use,pyramid-shaped skyscraper in London.
Adrenal glands - Glands located above the kidneys that produce hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.
Adrenaline - A hormone made by the body in response to a stressful or threatening situation.
Genetic disorder - A health problem caused by abnormalities in a person's genetic make-up.
Amygdala - An almond-shaped structure in the middle of the brain that is thought to hold some of our oldest instincts, such as the “fight or flight” impulse.
Traumatic - Events so overwhelming, distressing, or frightening that they can cause a lasting negative impact on a person's emotional, physical, and mental well-being.
Boon - A helpful thing.
Evolutionary - Relating to evolution, a process of gradual change that takes place over many generations, during which species of animals, plants, or insects slowly change some of their physical characteristics.