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Moral Panics: A Cultural Examination

Kenneth Thompson’s Moral Panics examines the phenomenon of societal anxieties erupting into disproportionate reactions, often focused on perceived threats to moral order. The work delves into the social construction of deviance, exploring how certain behaviors or groups come to be defined as dangerous and subsequently targeted by public outrage and legislative action. Thompson moves beyond simply identifying moral panics to analyze the underlying mechanisms that drive them, highlighting the roles of media, political actors, and cultural values in amplifying these anxieties.

Historical / Cultural Context

Published in 1999, Moral Panics builds upon earlier sociological work on deviance and social control, notably that of Stanley Cohen (Folk Devils and Moral Panics, 1972). Thompson’s book emerged during a period of heightened cultural debate surrounding issues like youth crime, drug use, and immigration. The late 20th century saw a proliferation of media coverage sensationalizing these topics, which, Thompson argues, contributed to the creation and escalation of moral panics. This work offers a critical lens for understanding how public discourse shapes perceptions of risk and deviance.

Who This Book Is For

This book is primarily geared towards students and scholars in sociology, cultural studies, and media studies. However, its accessible writing style and relevant examples make it valuable for general readers interested in understanding the dynamics of social anxiety and the construction of public perception. The book’s examination of the relationship between media, politics, and public opinion is relevant to anyone seeking to critically assess contemporary social issues.

Further Reading

• Cohen, Stanley. Folk Devils and Moral Panics: The Creation of Mods and Rockers.
• Hall, Stuart, et al. Policing the Crisis: Mugging, the State, and Law and Order.
• Ericson, Richard V., et al. Moral Panic and the Media.

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