Further Research Into Media Theory : Cohens Moral Panic

Cohens Moral Panic Theory


Moral Panic : Anything that is a threat emerging against societies values or interests. 


Threat is presented in a stylized and stereotypical fashion by the mass media. 


Example ( The Jonathan Ross + Russel Brand Scandal)


People with social power stir up moral panic and suggest an action to be taken. (Newspapers such as the Daily Mail)


Construction of "Folk Devils" : Folk Devils serve as a scape goat to substitute for the real ( and more problematic) social issues. (People like Amy Winehouse for example)


Historical Perspectives :


Football 100 Years ago = Hooliganism
Video Nasties in the 1980's
Video Games in the 1990's
Internet in the present day!


All have been used to stir up moral panic!


Features Of Moral Panic :


CONCERN
VOLALITY
HOSTILITY (FOLK DEVILS)
CONSENSUS
DIS PROPORTIONALITY : (EXAGGERATION OF EVIDENCE)