Stanley Cohen, born in 1942, is a renowned British criminologist and sociologist whose works have contributed significantly to the field of criminology and the study of social deviance. As a key figure in the discipline, Cohen has made extensive contributions to our understanding of the societal and cultural aspects of crime, as well as the media's role in shaping public perceptions of deviant behavior.
Cohen's most notable contribution is his concept of "moral panic." He defined moral panic as a widespread and exaggerated public reaction to a perceived threat posed by a particular group or behavior that is deemed deviant or abnormal. According to Cohen, these moral panics often arise due to media amplification, political agendas, and societal anxieties, leading to the creation of a moral crusade against the targeted group or behavior.
Throughout his career, Stanley Cohen has also focused on issues such as youth subcultures, media representation, and the criminal justice system. His comprehensive research and writings have emphasized the complexities involved in understanding crime and deviance, highlighting the importance of societal factors in shaping criminal behavior and public reactions.
Cohen's seminal work, "Folk Devils and Moral Panics," published in 1972, remains a fundamental text in the field of criminology and sociology. This work, along with many others, has solidified Stanley Cohen's position as a leading scholar in the discipline and continues to influence academic discussions and research in the study of crime and deviance.
