The point of departure in this study is a critique of Frank Furedi’s and Dominique Moïsi’s argument that specific culture of fear have emerged in the most developed Western societies. Against this background an alternative way of studying emotions in social science is shown here. It is inspired by works of Jean Delumeau from the Annales School. Moreover, the profile of fear is also linked with the changes of value hierarchy and thus Ronald Inglehart’s theory of postmaterialist values is applied here. Finally, two separate aims are achieved. On the abstract, theoretical level, the social role of emotions and fear is reconsidered. On the descriptive level, the summary characteristic of current fears, rather more optimistic than in Furedi’ s and Moïsi’s case, is delivered.