#Human Orbit

Are We Still Cancelling People?

Social cancellation was a proven and powerful tool for change. Is it still so today? How can we use the lessons of Cancel Culture to influence future movements?

Published:

Neon sign reading 'Canceled'

Cancel Culture - its utterance alone sparks fierce debate. Being a popular form of social protest over the last few years, it now begs the question: has social cancellation aided or hindered its efforts, and has its power faded?

I wholeheartedly support fighting for what you believe in and the right to protest. There are many atrocities and injustices committed globally, and those responsible must be held accountable. Cancel culture succeeded in bringing attention to the misdeeds of powerful figures, spurring movements that led to much needed change.

Grayscale image of a woman holding a sign that reads respect existence or expect resistance
Resistance is punk rock

The instrumental use of social media to rally change and drive progress was undeniable.

So What Changed?

Movements like #MeToo and the removal of harmful monuments demonstrated the power of social pressure. These successes emboldened others to attempt to recreate those effects over a wider and wider range of issues. What started with a focus on major societal problems morphed into a form of online mob justice.

Groups splintered from organized movements, expanding their “cancel” targets. The focus shifted from addressing undeniable injustices like assault and discrimination to scrutinizing and punishing others based on their words alone.

People gathered in front of concrete buildings carrying torches
He's hiding in there!

Undoubtedly, how we choose language matters, and those choices have the potential to perpetuate harmful biases and stereotypes. Understanding the impact of language is important and a key to reducing prejudice.

Fueling the Fires

The challenge is that these are delicate conversations, especially in a nation that prides itself on personal freedom. Any perceived attempts to control speech elicit fear of a slippery slope towards thought control and the erosion of free will. Using forceful tactics to silence others, regardless of intent, often fuels opposition.

Man getting hit in boxing match
The beating will continue until your actions meet my standards.

By using social cancellation indiscriminately, opportunities for dialogue were quickly shut down. People criticized for the use of unpopular language and ideas or questionable jokes faced disproportionate public shaming and the direct loss of careers and livelihood. This stemmed from mob tactics targeting everyone and everything associated with the target in their attack.

This heavy-handed approach did prompt people and businesses to toe the line in fear. However, it did little to change the hearts and minds of the populace. The opportunities for dialogue around the use of language were effectively ruined. Instead of conformity, resistance was ignited.

bonfire selective focus photography
Maybe not the fire we wanted, but the fire we got.

Additionally, the relentless focus on language diverted attention from other urgent issues - economic inequality, homelessness, and the looming threats of social media control. During a time when potential for social change and reform was at a peak, sewing dissension instead created division where unification was needed. By spreading efforts so thin, efforts for change became diluted and lost in the noise.

Cancel Culture Today

The very groups that cancel culture targeted have instead been emboldened. Brute force to bring silence instead prompted defiance. Cancellation became a ‘badge of honor’ to which politicians, celebrities, and comedians alike that were the targets of cancellation have since gained larger followings.

The wide and indiscriminate use of social cancellation made it easy to paint the efforts in a negative light. Supporters of the movement were painted as overly sensitive children silencing anyone they disagree with. Regardless of what the movement was really about, the meaning behind it was lost.

Cancel culture is not a substitute for justice, it's often a distraction from it.

~ Roxane Gay

While social cancellation still occurs, its influence has greatly weakened, and broader social support has fallen.

Lessons Learned

With the goal of influencing social change, it’s important to learn from the mistakes of “cancel culture.” I sympathize with its underlying motivations, but its methods proved counterproductive. True change is a process, requiring time and a strategic approach. That said, here are some key takeaways:

  • Force has its limits: Forceful tactics are extremely useful when used precisely and sparingly. Overuse of force often backfires and creates defiance.
  • Focus is essential: No war has been won by over extending efforts. Clearly define your goals, and pursue those goals. A scattered approach dilutes power and confuses supporters.
  • Change hearts and minds: Lasting change requires public support and buy in. Understanding the mindset and motivations of the opposition is the key to winning support in unlikely places.
  • Adapt your tactics: Predictability is easily countered. Diversify your toolkit and find new approaches to influencing change that may be unexpected.

By learning from these principles, we can create stronger social movements. Shock and awe might open doors, but thoughtful social influence is what keeps them open. Be clear with your goals and honest about how different approaches can help or hinder your goals.

Change is not impossible, but it is a process.

Comments

More From #Human Orbit

Beyond the Grind: The Decline of Hustle Culture

The future of work is changing. This article examines the decline of hustle culture and explores the possibilities for a more sustainable and humane approach to work, where well-being is not an afterthought, but a priority.

Person sitting on stairs looking at a phone

Is it Them or Me? Frustration of One-Sided Contact

Don't delete those contacts yet! A lack of calls isn't always a lack of caring. This article challenges assumptions about contact and offers a nuanced look at modern communication, offering hope for those who feel like they're always reaching out.

couple watching a movie together with a bucket of popcorn

Adaptations Aren't Always as Bad as You Think

You get an adaptation, and you get an adaptation! Everyone's getting an adaptation! Some may be objectively bad, not all are as bad as you think.

scale for measuring gold being calibrated

Wealth Isn't a One Size Fits All Concept

What is necessary to live, or to thrive in life? Comparing these ideas across culture may not be so easy. What is wealthy in one country may not be in another.

Recent Articles

robot working on a tablet
Tech Hole

The End of Work as We Know It: The Good News

Beyond job titles and paychecks, what truly defines us? This article explores the potential for a more fulfilling future in a world transformed by AI.

Man standing on mountains at night watching the stars
Brain Zone

JOMO: Finding Joy in the Age of FOMO

Tired of the FOMO trap? Explore practical strategies for disconnecting, setting boundaries with technology, and finding contentment in the present moment.

Tech Hole

Why I'll Miss TikTok's Algorithm

TikTok's algorithm isn't just good, it's different. From hyper-personalization to stability, this article breaks down why TikTok's algorithm is its secret weapon and why its competitors fall short.

Human Orbit

Beyond the Grind: The Decline of Hustle Culture

The future of work is changing. This article examines the decline of hustle culture and explores the possibilities for a more sustainable and humane approach to work, where well-being is not an afterthought, but a priority.

Person by a window with a journal that says 'stay healthy'
Level Up

Conquer Your Goals with Microhabits

Feeling overwhelmed by your goals? Discover the power of microhabits – tiny, manageable routines that pave the way for big changes. Learn how to break down large tasks into bite-sized pieces and build lasting habits.

© 2024 JWOL Media LLC. All rights reserved