outrage cycle

An outrage cycle is the predictable pattern by which something provocative—a statement, event, or social media post—triggers widespread anger, spawns commentary and counter-commentary, dominates attention briefly, then fades as the next provocation arrives.

The term captures how digital media amplifies and accelerates collective indignation: We're already two outrage cycles past that scandal.

Often used critically to suggest the anger is performative or that the rapid succession prevents meaningful engagement with any single issue.