Two Eclipses – Contribution to Understanding Nature and Society

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to illustrate how a cultural response is shaped by a natural phenomenon. A solar eclipse is, in a sense, a laboratory for humans have no influence on this natural phenomenon and the occurrence of the phenomenon itself, for the most part, has no significant consequences on people. This analysis is focused on two solar eclipses that occurred in Belgrade on February, 15th 1961 and on August, 11th 1999. The behavior of the citizens during these eclipses was entirely different. In 1961, the citizens curiously observed the eclipse through special glasses or darkened glasses whereas in 1999 they withdrew to their homes, avoiding any contact with the outside world. These contradictory behaviors were influenced by the positive propaganda in 1961 and the panic and fear stricken propaganda induced in 1999, both of which were created by the media under the control of the authorities of the time. Through the analysis of these dissimilar behaviors, as well as different contexts in which they occurred, deeper meanings are discerned, considering both the intentions of the authorities and the citizens' reactions to media propaganda related to these eclipses. It is also observed that there is a certain constant, i.e., each eclipse is closely intertwined with politics, even regarding traditional beliefs about the consequences of an eclipse. It may be concluded that the intrusion of politics into shaping the response to an eclipse is a consequence of the fact that the eclipse is socially consequence-free, so as to say an empty sign suitable for inscribing new meanings that holders of power wish to convey.