Final answer:
Whitney's character is revealed to be contemplative and possibly empathetic as he acknowledges fear as a fundamental emotion, indicating his ability for deeper thought and emotional complexity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The line of dialogue "Even so, I rather think they understand one thing--fear. The fear of pain and the fear of death" reveals that Whitney's character acknowledges the instinctive and primal understanding of fear among living beings. This indicates that Whitney is contemplative and possibly empathetic towards others, recognizing fear as a strong and fundamental emotion. The sentiment reflects deep introspection on the nature of fear and how it can be a common denominator across different forms of life.
In literature, such recognition often illustrates a character with a capacity for deeper thought and emotional complexity, possibly setting him apart from others who might overlook such nuances. The use of the terms 'pain' and 'death' suggests an acknowledgment of the basic instincts that govern behavior. This understanding may influence Whitney's actions and thoughts throughout the narrative, providing a philosophical angle to his character.