I think fear, consumerism, and identity, PARTICULARLY in our capitalistic, American culture, are inextricably linked. I don't know if you remember, but I brought up Marilyn Manson in one of our discussions and how intelligent the guy is, although many people wouldn't think that based on his public image. Here's an interview he did with Michael Moore, in which he addresses his ostensible culpability for the Columbine school shooting, and how fear and consumption dominate our society: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UzEOZF9MNS0 Similarly, I wrote a paper for a sociology class on how ubiquitous trends are in the U.S. Specifically, I focused on how sports and tragedy could be viewed as trends. If you'd like to read it, I could send it to you, but I basically underlined how trends are driven by societal pressure and the bandwagon effect...how, if you don't follow them and allow them to shape your identity, you are regarded as a pariah. I know this doesn't tie in completely to what you're saying, but I thought you may find it interesting, nevertheless.