University of New South Wales Faculty of Law Research Series
University of New South Wales Faculty of Law Research Series 2008
Riot, Resistance and Moral Panic: Demonising the Colonial Other
Article comments
This paper appeared in S.Poynting, and G.Morgan, (eds) 'Outrageous! Moral Panics in Australia', ACYS Publishing, Hobart. pp.20-29. ISBN: 9781875236596. This paper may also be referenced as [2008] UNSWLRS 29.
Abstract
How we speak, the language and the categories we use, construct problems in particular ways, and imply certain solutions. The object of discussion becomes defined and the possible policy responses are circumscribed to address the ‘problem’. The language we use also reflects power: who has the power to define the problem in a particular way, who is silenced by a particular representation. Defining crime, criminals and crime problems are susceptible to these issues of construction and representation, and the consequences can be particularly problematic in matters where crime is aligned with notions of ‘race’. This chapter considers the moral panics that have occurred as a result of Indigenous demonstrations and riots, and the governmental and media interpretations of and responses to those disturbances, particularly the extent to which various narratives of lawlessness and disadvantage are employed. I am also interested in contrasting notions of moral panic with the concept of moral economy and the role of moral indignation.
Subject Area
Criminal Law and Procedure
Recommended Citation
Chris Cunneen,
"Riot, Resistance and Moral Panic: Demonising the Colonial Other"
(May 2008).
University of New South Wales Faculty of Law Research Series.
University of New South Wales Faculty of Law Research Series 2008.
Working Paper 29.
http://law.bepress.com/unswwps/flrps08/art29
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