In "State of Fear," author Michael Crichton presents a critical viewpoint on human behavior, suggesting that humans, despite their advanced society, often resort to fear and avoidance rather than facing challenges head-on. This perspective is encapsulated in the quote about humans likened to 'nasty little apes,' implying a sense of contempt for the self-imposed limitations that people experience when confronted with adversity.

Crichton seems to argue that rather than confronting the realities of their existence and the threats they face, humans tend to retreat and evade responsibility. This concept raises questions about courage, resilience, and the true nature of human beings in the face of danger, indicating that there may be an instinctual drive to flee instead of to engage and solve problems.