Radio and Panic: The War of the Worlds, 60 Years Later

Introduction

In 1938, Orson Welles' radio adaptation of H.G. Wells' novel The War of the Worlds caused widespread panic across the United States. People believed that aliens were actually invading, and many fled their homes in terror. The incident is often cited as an example of the power of mass media to influence public opinion.

Sixty years later, Eduardo Meditsch revisited the War of the Worlds broadcast in his book Radio and Panic. Meditsch interviewed survivors of the broadcast, as well as experts on mass media and psychology. He also conducted his own experiments to see how people would react to a similar broadcast today.

The War of the Worlds Broadcast

On the evening of October 30, 1938, Orson Welles' radio adaptation of The War of the Worlds aired on the CBS radio network. The broadcast was so realistic that many people believed that aliens were actually invading. Some people fled their homes, while others hid in their basements or closets. The broadcast caused widespread panic and confusion.

The Aftermath

In the aftermath of the broadcast, there was a great deal of public outcry. People were angry that they had been misled by the broadcast, and they demanded that the government take action to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) held hearings on the broadcast, and Welles was forced to apologize.

The Legacy of the War of the Worlds Broadcast

The War of the Worlds broadcast has had a lasting impact on American culture. It is often cited as an example of the power of mass media to influence public opinion. The broadcast also raised questions about the ethics of using mass media to scare people.

Eduardo Meditsch's Book

In his book Radio and Panic, Eduardo Meditsch revisits the War of the Worlds broadcast and its aftermath. Meditsch interviews survivors of the broadcast, as well as experts on mass media and psychology. He also conducts his own experiments to see how people would react to a similar broadcast today.

Meditsch's book is a fascinating look at one of the most significant events in American history. It is a must-read for anyone interested in mass media, psychology, or American history.

Why You Should Read This Book

Radio and Panic is a well-written and informative book that is sure to appeal to a wide range of readers. It is a fascinating look at one of the most significant events in American history, and it raises important questions about the ethics of using mass media to scare people.

If you are interested in mass media, psychology, or American history, then I highly recommend that you read Radio and Panic. You will not be disappointed.

Conclusion

Radio and Panic is a must-read for anyone interested in mass media, psychology, or American history. It is a fascinating look at one of the most significant events in American history, and it raises important questions about the ethics of using mass media to scare people.