ABSTRACT
Scholars of social movements have long used the concept of framing as a way to understand how movements attract members and create solidarity. David A. Snow et al. present a compelling argument that the social psychological and social movement literatures can be bridged through frame analysis and its constituent parts. The external environment of the university merits consideration. Two factors, both specific to the St. Louis metropolitan area, played decisive roles. Master frames are broad conceptual umbrellas that serve as a means for diagnosing the kinds of problems social movements typically address. The Culture of Fear frame was unintentionally supported by the vice president for academic affairs, who stood at the back of the room during the teach-in, frowning and taking copious notes. Less than one month before a widely-publicized gala to honor Biondi’s 25 years of service as president to the university, events rapidly spiraled out of control.
