Moral panic

Definition

Moral panic refers to a widespread feeling of fear or concern that arises when a particular group or behavior is perceived as a threat to societal norms and values. This reaction often leads to exaggerated public concern, sensationalized media coverage, and hasty responses by authorities. Moral panic can create an environment where the issue at hand is blown out of proportion, potentially leading to changes in laws or policies based on fear rather than fact.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Moral panic typically arises in response to events that are perceived as threatening to the moral fabric of society, such as crime waves or controversial social movements.
2. The concept was popularized by sociologist Stanley Cohen in his 1972 book 'Folk Devils and Moral Panics,' which examined how media portrayals can lead to societal reactions.
3. During moral panics, certain groups may be labeled as 'folk devils,' making them targets of blame and hostility from the public and authorities.
4. Law enforcement and policymakers may respond to moral panics with increased surveillance or harsher penalties, often without fully understanding the actual risks involved.
5. Moral panics can create long-term stigmatization of certain groups and influence public opinion even after the initial fears have subsided.

Review Questions

• How does moral panic illustrate the relationship between media representation and public perception?
  • Moral panic highlights how media representation can significantly shape public perception by sensationalizing certain issues or groups. When media outlets cover a topic in an exaggerated manner, it can lead people to perceive a greater threat than what actually exists. This distorted view can cause widespread anxiety and fear, prompting communities and authorities to react more strongly than warranted. Thus, moral panic showcases the powerful role that media plays in influencing societal attitudes.
• Discuss the role of scapegoating in the context of moral panic and its implications for affected groups.
  • Scapegoating is a key component of moral panic as it involves attributing blame to specific individuals or groups for societal problems. During a moral panic, these targeted groups may be demonized, leading to increased discrimination and stigmatization. The implications are significant: not only does this practice divert attention from the root causes of social issues, but it also harms those unfairly labeled as threats. The fallout from scapegoating can result in social division and conflict within communities.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of moral panic on legislation and social policy, providing examples of historical instances.
  • The long-term effects of moral panic can profoundly impact legislation and social policy, often leading to restrictive laws or regulations based on fear rather than empirical evidence. For instance, the 'War on Drugs' in the United States was partly fueled by moral panic surrounding drug abuse, resulting in harsh sentencing laws that disproportionately affected minority communities. Similarly, anti-terrorism laws enacted after 9/11 were influenced by a sense of moral panic regarding national security. These instances show how moral panic can lead to significant shifts in policy that may have lasting repercussions for civil liberties and social equity.

Related terms

Scapegoating: The practice of blaming an individual or group for problems faced by society, often used in moral panics to divert attention from deeper societal issues.

Social Control: The mechanisms, strategies, and institutions used by society to regulate individual behavior and maintain social order, which can become more stringent during moral panics.

Media Sensationalism: The tendency of media outlets to exaggerate stories or focus on sensational aspects to attract attention, often fueling moral panics by spreading fear and anxiety.