I think being afraid or at least sceptical about the dark is integrated into our genes. Of course, having not-overly-outdoors oriented parents isn't exactly helpful.

I love relying on dark adapted eyes, using no light or as little light as possible. Why almost every single light out there must start with the brightest setting is beyond me. Start out very dim, add more light as required makes a lot more sense when your eyes are adapted or semi-adapted to the dark.