For this essay assignment, you will respond to the following readings: Hawdon – Moral Panic Lakoff – Why it Matters Habermas, Lennox & Lennox – The Public Sphere In a well-developed academic essay, you will analyze and synthesize the major ideas presented across these texts. Your essay should demonstrate critical thinking, strong connections between course concepts, and thoughtful engagement with contemporary issues. Your essay must include the following components: Summary of the Readings Summarize the key arguments, concepts, and ideas from each reading. Your summary should demonstrate comprehension of the authors’ main claims and how the readings connect to one another. Connections to Course Content Relate the readings to other class readings, lectures, discussions, theories, or concepts covered throughout the course. Be specific in explaining these connections. Application to a Current Event Apply the ideas from the readings to a relevant current event, social issue, media example, or cultural phenomenon. Explain how the readings help analyze or better understand the event. Critical Reflection Reflect on the value and effectiveness of the readings. Consider questions such as: Do you agree or disagree with the authors’ arguments? Are there limitations or weaknesses in the readings? How could the arguments be expanded or improved? Do the ideas connect to experiences or observations from everyday life? Requirements Minimum of 4 full pages MLA or APA format Times New Roman, 12-point font Double-spaced Academic tone throughout No slang, contractions, or informal language Clear organization with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion Use textual evidence and examples where appropriate