Synopsis
Since August 1945 the Western world has been fascinated with the notion of 'flying saucers', subsequently termed 'Unidentified Flying Objects' or 'UFOs'. Numerous 'experts' have offered explanations, often involving extraterrestrial entities. These early experts promoted their beliefs enthusiastically. Some were undoubtedly sincere - although somewhat maverick - while a few might have been intentional 'psychological con men'. The various opinions of these 'experts' generated extensive tabloid and media attention in the 1950s and 60s with the result that reported sightings became wrapped up in any number of beliefs and legends. David Clarke and Andy Roberts carefully unpick the origin of these beliefs, looking carefully at the key individuals involved. This reveals how the paranoia of the Cold War era generated its own myths and also shows that many aspects of the subsequent 'New Age' ideology had their origins in the UFO cults. "Flying Saucerers" is not written for people who believe in UFOs. Readers are not expected to believe in their 'nuts and bolts' existence, still less the prospects of a "Close Encounter of the Third Kind". Instead it is both a social history and a history of ideas, revealing how the notions of a few inspired 'experts' evolved into prevailing modern day myths.
