Interesting, Al!
There seems a widespread assumption and belief, going way back to ancient Greece, that it's only our civilisation that keeps a fragile rein on our true human nature,. Which busts out periodically to reveal our true colours.
In times of disaster panic and fear take over as we regress to the primitive instincts of apes, a war of all against all. People at heart are not good. This is even reflected in religious concepts such as original sin. And it’s why we need strong rules and strong leaders to keep us all safe.
Or… ???