In Hunter S. Thompson's "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas," he critiques a generation plagued by disillusionment and a sense of failure, referring to them as "permanent cripples" and "failed seekers." He highlights their naivety in hoping for external guidance or a guiding force that will lead them to enlightenment or salvation, which he sees as a misguided belief rooted in the 'Acid Culture.' This reflects an overarching desire for assurance that someone or something is watching over them, mimicking notions central to organized belief systems.

Thompson draws parallels between this spiritual search and established institutions like the Catholic Church and military hierarchy, where individuals place faith in authorities, whether secular or divine. This blind faith, he argues, perpetuates the illusion of control and wisdom that these figures embody. By challenging this mindset, Thompson exposes the dangers of relying on higher powers, illustrating a critique of both societal norms and the inherent human longing for direction in an unpredictable world.