Do the Psychological Techniques Employed by Horror Filmmakers Have a Direct Relation to Societies Fears and Paranoia?

I'd be extremely interested in hearing everyones views on the subject and would of course give full credits and recognition to any opinions used in the final document - as horror fans you are all primary sources of information.

I'm very aware how vague that question might seem so below, please find my contents page which will hopefully make my train of thought clearer to you all.


Introduction
Identification of Subject
Research Methodology
Introduction of Subject

Chapter 1
The Conventions of Horror - A Nightmare on Elm St. vs. Alien
Commonplace Imagery
Enclosed Spaces
The Floating Camera
Concealment
The Story
The Screaming Victim
Subliminal Sexual Imagery
Social Themes

Chapter 2
Early Horror
Global Threat
The Cold War
Post War Paranoia

Chapter 3
Body Horror
Consumer Obsession
The Thing - Cancer/Disease
The Blob - Organic Disease
The Fly - Aids

Chapter 4
Zombies
Origins
Hallmarks
Of The Dead
Social and Political Undertones


I'm particularly interested in hearing peoples opinions about early horror and underlying themes regarding the cold war (The Day the Earth Stood Still) and Post-War (Invasion of the Body Snatchers).

However all views, thoughts and opinions on the question will be more than welcome.

I look forward to hearing from you,

Rick