Atomic Age - Hsci 1135

ic Bryant Gingrich

HSCI1133

Pandora, Katherine

April 10, 2009

3:00-4:15

Paper 5: The Atomic Age

Subsequent to World War II, science began to rapidly progress. Science grew so rapidly, that the general public was unable to keep up with the vast array of complex new theories and inventions. Long gone were the days when science was attributed as a form of leisure for an intellect, or a fascinating, yet unnecessary means of discovery. Science was now recognized as a prestigious field representing limitless capacity. The term impossible had much less meaning as the public watched demonstrations that were once unfeasible. It was no longer a matter of if, rather than when we would accomplish the once deemed impossible. With this overwhelming area of discovery and understanding came a spectrum of feelings as broad as the field of science itself. A love and appreciation for all the conveniences derived from science exploration was expressed; however, on the opposite end of the spectrum a sheer hatred was expressed, as individuals often grow to fear, or hate that in which they cannot understand or control. The complex, unconditional power that science represented caused a great fear among the public, but fear does not constitute respect. Whether individuals residing within our society realized it or not, science was the unrelenting new authority.

The time following World War II consisted of a great deal of uncertainty, panic, and worry. Hollywood took advantage of vague scientific endeavors by fabricating horrific images of “potential” outcomes that may transgress as a result of atomic exploration. In order to make fiction even more intriguing, science fiction writers began to incorporate modern forms of science into their compelling works. Hollywood had a firm grasp on the concept that people would simply devour present, overly-embellished concepts in science that dealt with war, espionage, and discreet governmental ambiguity that could lead to war...