I have witnessed tourists encouraging children to approach bear cubs in National parks and feed or try to pet them. This is a good way to collect life insurance on your kids. Nothing looks more cuddly than a bear cub, and nothing is more dangerous than its mother. I can't emphasize enough how dangerous Bears can be, I speak from experience of working in the bush. Contrast all this to the evil image of the wolf, which is not generally speaking, a danger to Humans.
Most bear attacks are due to straight stupidity or ignorance.
There are 2 or 3 things you can do to try and avoid Bears. When hiking, make plenty of noise. Some outdoor stores carry small bells to attach to your boots for this purpose. Bears will generally avoid you and run away, if they encounter you. Never store food close to where you are sleeping, such as in a tent.