The Terror Dream

"The Terror Dream" is a concept introduced by historian Susan Faludi that refers to the collective anxiety and fear experienced by Americans after the September 11, 2001 attacks. It describes how, in response to this trauma, the U.S. embraced a culture of heightened security, patriotism, and sometimes aggressive policies, in an attempt to restore a sense of safety and normalcy. The "dream" reflects a national desire for security and stability, but also reveals underlying tensions and fears about identity, vulnerability, and the future of American values.