The consequences of cancel culture

It’s undeniable that cancel culture has shifted the balance from the powerful to the masses, putting the “untouchables” in the hot seat. But it’s more complicated than that, and far from perfect.

At its best, it’s been an effective tool used to sometimes “take down” the powerful, rich and popular. But at its worst, it’s ruined people’s lives for a simple mistake, blown out of proportion by a mob who feel their opinion matters most.

Further, as cancel culture continues to redefine what is and isn’t acceptable, cancellations are becoming increasingly difficult to avoid. And with our media turning any spark into a flame, anyone could end up in the crosshairs.

What happens when we get it wrong?

While cancel trials are very public, their consequences are lesser known, with victims facing devastating social, financial, and mental consequences that far outweigh their slip-up.

• Has public perception been able to change after someone has been cancelled?
• Has cancel culture gone too far? 
• How is it any different to internet bullying?

Explore the complications and consequences of cancel culture, and where we need to draw the line in order to create a more forgiving society, in this latest episode of A Different Lens.