Why do some people persist in doing things they know are dangerous, even when they are aware it might cost them their lives? Even the most cowardly individuals can exhibit a fearsome courage in extreme situations.
This is a complex issue.
From a genetic perspective, a species looking to continue its existence will imprint a fear of death onto its DNA.
However, whether in The West or The East, there really are some people who can disregard their own lives.
The difference is that in The East, such individuals are more often part of a collective, while in The West, they mostly act as individuals.
This is probably the difference between continental civilization and maritime civilization. To be more direct, it's the difference between agricultural civilization and the civilization of piracy.
In eras when technology was not so advanced, piracy on the high seas really was akin to staking your head on your waistband for a gamble.
