The author blames the mass media ………

Capable of inhabiting most of the waters of the world, sharks appear to dominate the depths. Swimmers, water skiers, snorkelers, scuba divers, and spear fishermen in ever -increasing numbers have recently invaded their habitats, and sharks have responded to the intrusion with predictable reflex reactions — they have attacked. The resultant notoriety has given sharks a had reputation. The mass media have embellished the image until the word shark has come ‘to make most people react in horror. This dread of sharks is not reinforced by the facts. Of the 100 or so unprovoked attacks that occur worldwide every year, less than 35 are fatal.