"Golden Age of science fiction" often refers to the temporal span between 1938 and the time immediately before the emergence of the New Wave in the 1960s. In the year 1938, John W. Campbell Jr. bestowed the role of editor for the science fiction publication Astounding Stories, which was renamed as Astounding Science Fiction within the same year. Subsequently, in 1960, the magazine was ultimately rebranded as Analog. The editorial tenure of Campbell at Astounding Science Fiction was of great significance, as it led to the publication of exceptional science fiction tales and the emergence of highly proficient science fiction authors. Consequently, the genre saw a surge in popularity, captivating a wide readership. The periodical gained the status as a globally recognized authority in the field of science fiction. Simultaneously, Campbell convened a group of skilled writers with the intention of producing narratives that explored the psychological and sociological impacts of scientific and technological progress on human beings. Additionally, these narratives aimed to present scientifically and technologically plausible advancements. In this article, confronting social fears and paranoia: the 1950’s with special reference to the golden age of science fiction, the aforementioned points have been highlighted.

Social Fears, Paranoia, Science Fiction