"Chas Critcher's study is doubly welcome as it discusses theoretical underpinnings thoroughly, and also provides a set of illustrative case studies... This is an important and stimulating book for a range of audiences." VISTA Vol 8 no 3 How are social problems defined and responded to in contemporary society? What is the role of the media in creating, endorsing and sustaining moral panics? The term 'moral panic' is frequently applied to sudden outbreaks...