Time and Anxiety

The "Age of Anxiety" following World War One was a time of fear, questions and new ideas. The tragic war had shocked the world and devastated an entire generation. People began to question everything they thought had been solid and definite. Society was on edge and constantly looking over its shoulder for another devastating blow. They were not wrong to do so because after the roaring twenties the Great Depression devastated society once again.

Eight years ago, a similar social shock occurred in the United States. September 11, 2001, sent the US into a similar period of anxiety. Citizens of the US had been living in a false sense of security for at least a decade because there were no serious threats or attacks. Immediately following the chain of attacks that morning, the country was stricken and questioning. We questioned national security, foreign threats, home threats and most of our society's views changed. From security, race and foreign and home affairs to an overall feeling of insecurity and worry about traveling for vacations, going to work and even sending children to school. New ideas about security and protection emerged as the ideas did after WWI. The US also looked over its shoulder for the next blow which would come economically as well. Now, the US finds itself in an economic recession and possibly a crisis that is beginning to be felt around the world. Although 9/11 in most respects was not as devastating as WWI, both created an "Age of Anxiety" in their aftermath.