Week 6 – Ethics and Contemporary Issue- “Cancel Culture”
ETHC 445: Principles of Ethics
References
12 celebs who were canceled in 2021, from Chris Noth to J.K. Rowling. South China Morning
Post. (2021, December 24). Retrieved February 1, 2023, from
https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3160837/12-celebrities-who-gotcancelled-2021-chris-noths
Alexander, E. (2020, July 14). Cancel culture: A force for good or a threat to free speech? Harper’s
BAZAAR. Retrieved February 9, 2023 from
https://www.harpersbazaar.com/uk/culture/a33296561/cancel-culture-a-force-for-good-or-a-threat-to-free-speech/
JK Rowling being cancelled again for new transgender comments. (2021, December 13). GIANT
FREAKIN ROBOT. Retrieved February 1, 2023, from
JK Rowling Being Cancelled Again For New Transgender Comments
Matthews, C. (2020, July 10). The solution to JK Rowling. Medium. Retrieved February 7, 2023 from
https://conormichaeljohnmatthews.medium.com/the-solution-to-jkrowling-7619bc2f21
Netflix review 2022 | streaming services guide | U.S. news. (n.d.). Retrieved February 1, 2023,
from https://www.usnews.com/360-reviews/technology/streaming-services/netflix
Sharf, Z. (2021, October 7). GLAAD, ‘dear white people’ EP slam Dave Chappelle’s Anti-Trans
Special: ‘dangerously transphobic’. IndieWire. Retrieved February 3, 2023, from https://www.indiewire.com/2021/10/dave-chappelle-slammed-glaad-closer-trans-jokes1234669843/
Toler, L. (2021, May 1). Cancel culture and its mental health effects. Verywell Mind. Retrieved
February 1, 2023, from https://www.verywellmind.com/the-mental-health-effects-of-cancel-culture5119201
Cancel culture has become a prevalent issue in today’s society as social media platforms allow for mass canceling of individuals and organizations. The practice of canceling involves boycotting and holding accountable those who commit acts of offense. However, cancel culture also poses ethical challenges as it may cross the line into bullying, limit freedom of speech and expression, and cause severe consequences for individuals and organizations.
The term “canceling” dates back to the early 90s and has evolved from being a lighthearted criticism to a form of retribution. Not all scenarios of cancel culture end up the same, as evidenced by the differing outcomes for Dave Chapelle and J.K. Rowling. Chapelle made transphobic jokes in his comedy special, but went on to win three Primetime Emmys and continue doing stand-up specials on Netflix. On the other hand, Rowling made transphobic comments on Twitter and faced death threats, lost her invitation to a Harry Potter reunion, and continues to face criticism from the public.
These differing outcomes raise several ethical questions surrounding cancel culture. Is it ethical to threaten someone’s life just because they have a different opinion? Is it right to bully someone because of their beliefs? Is it justice to hold individuals accountable in such a severe manner? The reality is, cancel culture doesn’t just apply to celebrities but to real-world situations and issues within different branches of society.
Cancel culture is a complex issue that involves balancing freedom of speech and expression with accountability and responsibility for one’s actions. The impact of cancel culture can range from severe consequences to minor consequences, but it’s crucial to consider the ethical principles of right and wrong when deciding whether or not to support it.
Cancel culture raises several ethical challenges and questions, and it’s important to consider the impact it may have on individuals and organizations. While it may serve as a form of accountability for those who commit acts of offense, it may also cross the line into bullying and limit freedom of speech and expression. The ethical principles of right and wrong must be considered when deciding whether or not to support cancel culture and its consequences. Ultimately, it’s a complex issue that requires a balanced approach to ensure justice and respect for individual rights and freedoms.
