The Impact of Fantasy on American Culture and Leadership

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This chapter explores the role of fantasy in shaping American culture, highlighting its influence on perceptions of reality and leadership. It traces the historical evolution of belief in make-believe from the Pilgrims to modern political contexts, revealing the implications for national character.

We all need a good fantasy world to retreat to sometimes – whether it's Hogwarts or Middle Earth, Westeros or Wakanda. But magical thinking can be dangerous too. And escapism isn't always innocent. So where do you draw the line between fantasy and reality?

Original Air Date: September 17, 2022

Interviews In This Hour:

Why not escape into fantasy? A tale of Disney adults — The magical thinkers, the dreamers, and the hucksters of America's fantasyland — Neil Gaiman on where dreams — and nightmares — come from

Guests:

Sarah Rachul, Marianne Eloise, Kurt Andersen, Neil Gaiman

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