They could not overcome what the adults around them had taught them: dark = danger.
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.
i never thought of it but that's a good point. i do rely more on my own nightvision when practical, so typically i either have the light on right away or don't use it at all. if i need to turn my light on to find something i close one eye to keep it adjusted.
i think the best would be to have separate switches for high and low settings, rather than clicking through one at a time. or you could always use a red filter.
and i totally agree about the fear of the dark being instinctve. we can't see nearly as well in the dark as the nocturnal predators that would harm us, so we're naturally wary of dark places. it's all about self-preservation.
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