The Uses of Fear and Loathing

Reflecting on the history of war, James Madison once remarked, “Among the Romans it was a standing maxim to excite a war, whenever a revolt was apprehended.”

Fear of foreigners—foreign invaders, armies, and diseases—has always been a handy tool for rulers who aspire to expand their power, wealth, and scope of their activities in the world. When peoples’ minds are gripped by fear, they become credulous, compliant, and willing to support just about any action their rulers wish to undertake.

Since ...