folk devil: Idiom Meaning and Origin

Folk devil is an idiom used to describe an individual or group of people who are blamed for societal problems or seen as a threat to the existing social order. It originated in the 1970s and is derived from the concept of a literal "devil" in folklore representing evil or wickedness. The term first gained prominence through the work of sociologist Stanley Cohen, who introduced it in his book "Folk Devils and Moral Panics."

Some related idioms that can help us understand the concept of a folk devil are "the devil" and "devil's advocate." When we refer to someone as "the devil," we mean they are a troublemaker or someone who causes problems. Similarly, a "devil's advocate" is someone who takes a contrary position in order to provoke discussion or argument. These idioms highlight the role that individuals or groups labeled as folk devils play in society.

This idiom is often used in the context of moral panics, where the media and public opinion focuses on a particular group or issue, exaggerating it as a threat to society. When a folk devil emerges, they are labeled as the source of societal problems and become the target of fear, condemnation, and social control measures. The concept of a folk devil can be seen in various historical and contemporary examples.

One example of the folk devil phenomenon is the Satanic Panic of the 1980s and 1990s. During this period, there was widespread fear and moral outrage surrounding allegations of Satanic ritual abuse. The media played a significant role in promoting this moral panic, leading to numerous false accusations and unjust prosecutions.

Folk devils can be identified by certain common characteristics. They are typically portrayed as an "other" or outsider, different from the mainstream population. They are often depicted as dangerous, immoral, and threatening to the established social order. They are seen as a corrupting influence on society, and their actions are blamed for various social problems.

It is important to note that the role of folk devils in society is not static. As the social and political landscape evolves, different groups or individuals may become the focus of moral panics and labeled as folk devils. This perpetuates a cycle where society seeks scapegoats for its problems, often diverting attention from more systemic issues.

The term "folk devil" and the concept it represents have drawn criticism for their potential to fuel prejudice, discrimination, and social injustices. By vilifying certain groups or individuals, society risks overlooking the complexities of the underlying issues and fails to address the root causes of problems.

Despite the criticisms, the concept of a folk devil continues to be relevant and applicable in contemporary society. It serves as a reminder of the power of media, public opinion, and societal biases in shaping perceptions and influencing social dynamics. The idiom highlights the tendency to scapegoat and demonize certain groups in times of social unease, reflecting the timeless human inclination to assign blame and seek simplistic explanations for complex issues.