The America of the early 1980s was characterized by concerns relating
             to the Cold War. On June 21, 1981, for example, the Soviet Union launched
             a research satellite to dock with the Salyut 6 space laboratory. Though
             ostensibly for research purposes, the thought of a permanent orbiting
             Soviet station in space raised concern in the United States regarding
             Soviet technology ("Soviet Plans Big Orbiting Station").
             This growing concern over the harmful potential of foreign technology
             was also evident in the American interest in the first Arab nuclear
             conference that just concluded in Damascus, Syria. The conference ended
             with an agreement to establish nuclear power stations in Arab countries.
             This conference marked the first foray of Arab nations into nuclear
             technology ("Arab Nations Set Up Group to Promote Nuclear Power").
             Domestically, the United States was further being buffeted by labor
             disputes. The Air Control Union agreed to delay a scheduled walkout, but
             continued to agitate for more benefits for its members. The threatened
             strike caused a great deal of public worry, since a strike by air traffic
             controllers would disrupt nationwide air travel (Witkin).
             In addition to the threatened air traffic strike, many Americans were
             also dealing with the loss of the nation's pastime. Baseball players
             continued to be on strike, and relations between both sides deteriorated
             further after failed talks. The resulting delay in the start of baseball
             season added to the somber air permeating the country.
             Perhaps partly because of this uncertainty, people turned to the
             movies and television for entertainment. The most popular programs were
             comedies, including the hit movie "Cannonball Run" and programs such as
             "Eight is Enough." Game shows like "The Price is Right" and "The $100,000
             Name that Tune" were also popular primetime choices. Such programming
             ...