By examining the quantitative impact of McCarthyism on American society and democracy, particularly through studies on the Hollywood blacklist and forthcoming investigations into its effects on targeted groups like the press, labor unions, and liberal politicians, Dr. Tianyi Wang, Assistant Professor, Department of Economics, University of Toronto’s research addresses the critical analysis of press independence, political discourse, and the foundations of open dialogue in the context of historical political repression.

McCarthyism, led by figures like Senator Joseph McCarthy, resulted in widespread fear, accusations, and persecution of individuals suspected of communist ties, even without evidence. It is known for suppressing political dissent, civil liberties, and freedom of thought.

Dr. Wang’s research aims to provide quantitative evidence of how McCarthyism affected American society and democracy. One of the studies focuses on the Hollywood blacklist, which affected hundreds of professionals in the entertainment industry. The research examines how this blacklist influenced individual careers and the content of films, particularly its impact on progressive and social themes in movies.

Future projects will explore how McCarthyism affected other targeted groups, such as the press, labor unions, and liberal politicians. For example, journalists were subpoenaed to testify about their political beliefs, and Dr. Wang plans to analyze the impact on press independence and political discourse.