ABSTRACT
This chapter begins by examining moral panics and folk devils. Classically conceived, moral panics are experienced periodically when certain groups – who become defined as ‘folk devils’ – are deemed a threat to societal values and interests. Crucial in this process is the role of the mass media and ‘moral entrepreneurs’, which have the power to define or ‘label’ deviant groups as such, and, accordingly, presume to act as society’s guardians. The chapter considers not only the original conception of moral panics and folk devils but also some of the more recent additions to the initial theory, which, among other things, includes interest in delineating the key elements of moral panics, analyses of some of the lasting legacies of relatively short-lived moral panics, assessments as to ways moral panics might be resisted, and how ‘good moral panics’ might emerge in response to issues of legitimate public concern. The societal reaction to asylum seekers in Australia is examined because it has many of the hallmarks of a classic moral panic, and because some of the amendments to moral panic theory apply to it. Although not typically thought of as allied to moral panics and folk devils, the concept of ‘trial by media’ is also considered in this chapter. Like social responses to folk devils, media trials involve processes of demonization, though more often that will be directed at individuals rather than groups of people. The chapter looks at two cases of trial by media: (i) the disappearance of Madeleine McCann; and (ii) the British media’s vilification of former Metropolitan Police Service Commissioner, Sir Ian Blair.
