Question

Sociologists refer to an episode during which the public or the media express concern or fear from a given agent or threat that is exaggerated, out of proportion to, and less serious than, its objective danger or potential damage:

a) a moral panic
b) media overload
c) an accurate assessment of the situation
d) mass delusion
e) media objectivity

Answer 1

A moral panic is a heightened and exaggerated public concern or fear about a threat that is less serious than represented by the media, influenced by media framing and misinformation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The phenomenon in which the public or the media show a heightened level of concern or fear about a threat, which is actually less serious than depicted, is referred to as a moral panic. Instances such as the coverage of crime series or events like 9/11 and the Boston Marathon Bombing can lead to an exaggerated public fear of crime and terrorism, influencing people's perceptions to the extent that they believe crime rates are higher than they actually are. This effect can also be seen when the media reports on domestic issues, and the framing of information, whether as a riot or a protest, can significantly influence public opinion.

Social media and the media's role in society have significantly contributed to the spread of misinformation and shaped public perceptions, often resulting in moral panic. The media's influence extends to how it socializes audiences, frames information, and constructs reality. These factors are crucial in understanding why moral panics occur and how public opinion can be swayed by media representation.