Discovering the Shadows: Devil Worship in 1988
Geraldo Rivera’s Investigation
On October 31, 1988, NBC aired the controversial TV special "Devil Worship: Exposing Satan's Underground", hosted by journalist Geraldo Rivera. This program aimed to unveil the alleged rising phenomenon of satanic ritual abuse in America during the late 1980s.
The Cultural Context of the 1980s
The 1980s were a time of heightened anxiety about **satanic cults**, fueled by sensational media reports and moral panic. Rivera's program brought these fears into the living rooms of millions, contributing to the fierce debate surrounding **satanic panic** and its implications for society.
Unveiling the Controversy
Accusations of Media Sensationalism
The special faced accusations of sensationalism, as it presented disturbing testimonies and visuals that shocked audiences. Critics argued that the portrayal of **satanic rituals** frequently lacked substantive evidence, causing unnecessary fear and panic.
Psychological Impact and Public Reaction
The impact of the program extended into the public consciousness. It sparked fervent debates on the validity of **satanic panic**, leading to increased scrutiny of child abuse cases and a reevaluation of investigative practices regarding claims of **ritual abuse**.
Fun Fact
Geraldo Rivera's Bold Claims
In addition to revealing the supposed underground world of satanic worship, Geraldo Rivera claimed that the “**Devil Worship**” episode received more complaints to the network than any other show until that time.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on Satanic Panic
For those wanting to delve deeper into the phenomenon of **satanic panic**, consider reading "Satanic Panic: The Creation of a Contemporary Legend" by Beer and Peters or "The Devil's Playground: The True Story Behind the Satanic Cult Rituals in America" by Rebecca Knox.
Continue with Google