UFOs and Popular Culture: An Encyclopedia of Contemporary Myth

ABC-CLIO (2000) | 439 pages | ISBN 9781576072653

Are extraterrestrials providing the military with alien technology in exchange for carte blanche abduction rights? Are crop circles the pranks of drunken Englishmen or just alien graffiti? Who, really, are Men in Black, and why are they making movies? UFO culture has penetrated America with a vengeance and UFOs and Popular Culture: An Encyclopedia of Contemporary Mythology examines these questions and more.

Is the human race the result of a breeding experiment carried out by ancient astronauts? Are satanists, extraterrestrials—or both—mutilating cattle? Whimsical and fascinating, UFOs and Popular Culture explores a rich facet of Americana and its impact on contemporary society. The UFO phenomenon is put into folkloric and psychological perspective, revealing much about our collective psyche. From religious beliefs and legends to movies and TV shows; from advertising and celebrities to Internet sites and photo ops; this illustrated A–Z encyclopedia is your first stop resource for understanding UFO beliefs and their impact on contemporary America. Topics explored include Music and UFOs, Naked Aliens, Reincarnation, Roswell, Brad Steiger, Heaven's Gate, War of the Worlds, and UFO Conventions.