In fear that some evil threatens the well-being of society grips a large number of people. hostility, and sometimes violence, is then directed toward those thought to be responsible.

I believe the correct answer is: moral panic.

     Moral panic is the term used to describe an instance of public anxiety or alarm in response to a problem which occurs when large numbers of people become concerned, fearful, about some behavior that they believe threatens the morality of their society. Moral panic is often fuelled by rumors and can be dangerous when is over the proportions.

     Therefore, the fear that some evil threatens the well-being of society grips a large number of people is moral panic. Moral panic is usually followed by hostility, and sometimes violence, is then directed toward those thought to be responsible.

can you explain it better

answer; does not include a reference to the audience;