Technology
Moral Panics and the Social Construction of Deviance in Media and Politics
Quick fact
The term 'moral panic' was coined by sociologist Stanley Cohen in 1972 after studying the 'Mods' and 'Rockers' clashes in 1960s Britain. He found that media exaggeration—not the actual events—was central to creating public fear and calls for control.
Why this is interesting
Ever notice how certain groups suddenly become the target of intense public anger, as if they're the cause of all society's problems? Why do these panics appear and fade so quickly?