The fear of life is the favorite disease of the 20th century.

In this quote, William Lyon Phelps speaks to a pervasive and debilitating feeling that gripped many individuals in the 20th century: the fear of life itself. Phelps suggests that rather than simply fearing death or specific challenges, people in this era were overwhelmed by an existential dread of living and the unknowns that came with it. This fear is not just about external threats but about the complexity and unpredictability of life, which can paralyze individuals from fully engaging with the world and pursuing their desires.

Phelps' assertion of fear as a "disease" highlights the way this anxiety spreads through society, affecting individuals across different walks of life. In the 20th century, this fear might have been fueled by global conflicts like the World Wars, the rapid pace of industrialization, and the profound social changes occurring across the globe. With technological advancements and shifting cultural norms, the traditional ways of living were being disrupted, and many individuals struggled to adapt to a world that seemed increasingly chaotic and out of their control.

Additionally, the idea that fear of life became a "favorite disease" implies that it was not just a common condition but something that many people clung to, perhaps because it provided an explanation for their personal discomfort or lack of direction. It suggests that some individuals may have used this fear as a way to avoid confronting the realities of existence, preferring to retreat from life rather than embracing it with its inherent uncertainties and challenges.

The origin of the quote comes from William Lyon Phelps, an American educator, writer, and professor at Yale University. Phelps was a prominent figure in early 20th-century intellectual circles, known for his contributions to literature and education. This quote reflects his deep understanding of human nature and his critique of how the anxiety of the modern world could prevent individuals from fully engaging in the experience of life. It captures the essence of a time when society was at a crossroads, grappling with new technologies, ideologies, and an uncertain future.