The world is a chaotic place. Its always been like that but some people feel that the world is just changing too rapidly (and not necessarily for the better). A global financial crisis, political instability, violence, austerity these are just some of the words youll hear thrown around today. These global events have led many to question authority, mistrust corporations/businesses, and protest their government. Conspiracy theories are now common place and have grown very quickly since the turmoil of war and terrorism has embroiled countries across the globe. What does this all mean for our zeitgeist? What popular culture totem can be best used to fictionalize and contextualize societys growing cynicism, anger, and mistrust? The X-Files. The following are five reasons why the show needs to return and four ways to bring it back for todays audience. And yes, Fox I am available to work on the show! Fox, the network that is, not Mulder!
5. Conspiracy Theory Rising
The fact of the matter is that conspiracy theories have always received a devout following. From the assassination of JFK to Area 51, the idea of questioning those in power about events is very common place. These theories gain even more traction following the emergence of scandals. With the American government embroiled in controversies surrounding the use of drones, the ability for the government to obtain press records, and the power of the IRS it seems that the idea of popular mistrust is on the rise. Moreover with scandals in a variety of European countries including Italy, where former Premier Silvio Berlusconi is under investigation and on trial for a number of allegations, it seems that confidence in public officials is on the wane. Considering The X-Files penchant for questioning authority and using fiction to cast light (or maybe I should say cast shadows) on certain elements within government, the current political situation has made ripe territory for the show to mine. Also, media figures such as Alex Jones have received much attention for their conspiracy theories surrounding abuse of government power. It is in the zeitgeist plain and simple.