Joseph P. Laycock

Joseph Laycock, an associate professor of religious studies and author specializing in American religious history, dives into the chilling phenomenon of the Satanic Panic. He explores the origins rooted in 1960s culture and media influences, showcasing how fears were exacerbated by figures like Manson and LaVey. Laycock recounts the explosive McMartin preschool allegations and the media's role in amplifying panic for ratings. He also connects this moral panic to modern conspiracies like QAnon, revealing the enduring belief in evil and societal anxieties.

In this engaging discussion, Joseph Laycock, an assistant professor of religious studies at Texas State University, delves into the fascinating intersections of vampirism, role-playing games, and societal fears. He highlights how modern vampire communities challenge stereotypes, revealing diverse beliefs. The conversation touches on the moral panic surrounding Dungeons & Dragons in the '80s and explores the cultural implications of exorcism and contemporary Satanism, showcasing how these subjects reshape our understanding of religion and society.