Why Don't Some People Develop Survival Reflexes?

Sometimes, people fail to react appropriately to threats or dangerous situations. This is particularly evident in scenarios where survival reflexes should come into play. These are not the instinctual reflexes that kick in when, for example, we shield our face from an approaching object. Instead, we're talking about the more learned and rational responses that can save lives or significantly mitigate risk. So, why do some individuals lack these survival reflexes?

The Role of Common Sense and Experience

One of the most critical factors is the absence of common sense and experience. Many people grow up sheltered and protected from real-world dangers, which can lead to a lack of awareness of potential threats. For instance, walking around at night after consuming alcohol, while listening to music through headphones, is a questionable decision. The danger lies not just in the impairment caused by alcohol but also the complete lack of situational awareness due to auditory isolation.

Case Study of a Burglary Incident

A chilling anecdote will illustrate this point. On a cold winter night just before Christmas, my son returned home to find the patio doors broken and the house clearly ransacked. Instead of immediately calling for help, he and his friends first armed themselves with large carving knives. One friend grabbed a rolling pin. His other friend instead huddled in a corner, trembling in fear. This stark contrast in reactions highlighted the stark difference between those who have been trained and exposed to threats and those who have grown up in a more sheltered environment.

The Impact of Upbringing and Education

Overall, the upbringing plays a significant role. Two of my son's friends, who had trained in martial arts and had been brought up with a common sense approach to danger, reacted rationally. The third friend, who came from a very left-wing, pacifist family, was left in a state of fear and helplessness.

This situation reflects the broader truth that upbringing and education can significantly shape one's ability to handle threatening situations. Children brought up in environments that emphasize self-defense and situational awareness are more likely to react appropriately when faced with danger. Conversely, those who grow up in more pacifist, emotionally driven environments may lack the necessary skills and mental resilience to respond effectively.

The Influence of Media and Culture

Media and culture also play a role in shaping our understanding of threats and our preparedness to deal with them. Movies and video games often glamorize confrontations, leading some to believe that armed confrontation is the best response to threat. However, in real life, the best course of action often isn't to fight but to reason, de-escalate, and avoid confrontation if possible.

Conclusion and Evolution in Action

As the science fiction author Larry Niven once wrote, “Consider it evolution in action.” Just as human evolution has shaped our physical and mental capabilities, societal evolution has shaped our ability to respond to threats rationally. The best way to develop survival reflexes is through practical experience, trained education, and a cultural shift that emphasizes situational awareness and rational decision-making.

Ultimately, developing survival reflexes involves building a foundation of common sense, experience, and resilience. This can be achieved through education, training, and exposure to real-world dangers. These skills can mean the difference between life and death in critical situations.

So, next time you encounter a dangerous situation, remember to think rationally, act with caution, and trust in the knowledge and experience you've gained over time.