Lensman. E.E. "Doc" Smith. Classic space opera with pure-as-Boy-Scout heros and unrelentingly evil bad guys fighting for control of planet-squishing "doomsday devices."
Though the intended meaning was eventually clarified, the initial impact of Khrushchev's apparent words put the world on a path that could have led to nuclear armageddon.
And if you fail a subject or drop out of a course because it's too difficult, then your self-esteem can suffer. But it's not the end of the world if you don't pass an exam.
So finally: basically, I'm here to tell you, people talk about the future as though it's either going to be a technological wonderland or some kind of apocalyptic poop barbecue.