Why do so many people in religion and government spread fear in the name of righteousness?

Question

and why do people believe them?

Answer 1

Fear does 2 things it keeps you in your place and it breeds conflict.As long as you're afraid you'll be good children.

And if there is conflict there's money to be made.You can't really make money being peaceful.I hope that answers that question.

Answer 2

What "righteous" fear is spread by government workers is beyond me. I don't even know what fear you mean, let alone calling it righteous.

Fear of the big California earthquake? of high taxes? of stagflation?

And why do you believe them?

Answer 3

To gain power.

There fear is in the act of not beleiving.

Answer 4

like me and most people here, we like to hear ourselves talk.  

Answer 5

because a scared mass is oddly enough a controlled mass, you tell them what to fear and they will run for what you say is good. It gives them the power to control any group of people that takes them seriously, which then in turn gives them the power to in a sense have anyone in that little group do their bidding for them and them not have to raise a finger. For those in power it is an age old tactic to destroy an enemy or to make gain off of these scared people.