Moral Panic

603 Words2 Pages

Criminal incidents narrated in newspapers, T.V. channels always leave the society terrified. The society’s fear gives birth to moral panic. Moral panic also takes place when various youth cultural phenomena confront the ordinary society. Mid-twentieth century Britain saw the arrival of two youth cultures namely “mods” and “rockers”. Each had its own values and beliefs, often resulting in conflicts between the two. Media had a lot to say on those clashes. Often the truth was left far behind in the reportage. Mishaps that were not related to the conflict were described to be a part of it. Deceptive headlines were used to gain public attention. Politicians, bureaucrats kept their opinions forward and blamed violent video games, improper guidance as a major cause. All this contributed to a moral panic. Society’s judgments were based on biased media reports that caused misinterpretation of the entire event. Because moral panic leads to prevalence of mistaken beliefs in the public and a distorted image of truth is left behind, it is a curse for the society. Moral Panic is the fear bred in...

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