Since last class I’ve been reflecting on how much of our lives exist online. From social media posts to old accounts we forgot about, our digital footprints are everywhere. It’s interesting (and kind of scary) to think about how things we post can stick around forever. I just remember getting into social media in about grade 7 and I am really hoping those old selfies are not floating around somewhere…
One thing that really stood out to me was the idea of the right to be forgotten. Should people have the ability to erase parts of their online history? It makes sense. Yes, people change, and what we posted years ago doesn’t always reflect who we are now. But at the same time, the internet doesn’t work like that. Once something is out there, it’s hard to take it back.
Cyber-shaming and cyber-vigilantism are also interesting topics that I have never really heard of before. Sometimes, people online take things too far, calling others out and ruining reputations over a single mistake. Of course, holding people accountable is important, but where’s the line? Social media moves so fast that things can spiral before anyone gets the full story. We see that in today’s age and the canceled culture. I recently came across an article and it explores whether canceling someone is truly the most effective way of holding them accountable.
The article brings up the point that cancel culture often does more harm than good by focusing on punishment rather than understanding or growth. It suggests that public shaming can lead to a quick rise in judgment without proper context. It might bring attention to certain issues, but it doesn’t always create much change. It highlights that canceling people for past mistakes doesn’t allow for personal growth or the possibility of forgiveness. Sadly, once your cancelled it seems like you stay cancelled…
This perspective connects to my earlier thoughts on how quickly things can spiral online. The article made me wonder, shouldn’t we offer the chance for learning and growth? I mean we all make mistakes! What do you think?
You rise issues regarding the complexity of our culture and the long-term effects of our digital traces. It’s true that once anything is on the internet, it may be very difficult to take it off, so it’s vital to think about giving individuals the chance to change and grow from their mistakes rather than condemning them forever. Your thoughtful analysis of the delicate balance between forgiveness and accountability in the virtual world emphasizes the value of fostering environments for development and comprehension as opposed to concentrating just on making snap decisions.
I think everyone has a chance for growth. However, people don’t just change overnight. I think we all have embarrassing things we’ve posted and wanted to take back. I got lucky and was able to delete one of my old TikTok accounts where I’d posted a bunch of cringey videos, but people remember them. And who knows who’s saved them?