The Power of Nightmares

The Power of Nightmares is a documentary series that examines how politicians have used fear to manipulate and control society. The series explores the rise of neoconservatism in the United States and the origins of Islamism, and how these ideologies have been used to create a mythical enemy and maintain power. The documentary also delves into the tactics used to create a sense of fear, such as the use of dubious evidence and methods to prove a case, and how this fear has been used to justify military action and the curtailment of civil liberties. Ultimately, the series argues that many of the threats posed by these enemies are exaggerated or non-existent, and that politicians will eventually have to confront the reality that their power has been based on illusions.

You can stream The Power of Nightmares on: BBC iPlayer

Some TV shows that have similar genres and were produced around the same time as The Power of Nightmares include CIA Declassified, Fired by Mum and Dad, Commando, Long Way Down, The Firm, Bizarre ER.