http://www.washingtonmonthl y.com/archives/individual/2 009_08/019398.php

an excerpt: "Most significant here is not the right-wing liars and demagogues making this stuff up but the fact that they've convinced a significant number of their followers that this stuff is true."

http://www.washingtonmonthl y.com/archives/individual/2 009_08/019412.php

an excerpt: "So why are far-right activists so apoplectic? Why would people who stand to benefit from health care reform literally take to the streets and threaten violence in opposition to legislation that will help them and their families? President Obama supports an approach to health care reform that emphasizes competition and choice, doesn't increase the deficit, and wouldn't raise middle class taxes ... and conservatives are comparing the plan to the Nazi Holocaust?" 

It's a good question: What is the fear all about? Oh no! A healthy, productive populace that spends its money wisely! Run for the hills!