The Erosion of Shame in Modern Society
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The Erosion of Shame in Modern Society
- Social media is accelerating shifts in social norms, with a median of 46% across 19 countries believing it has made political discourse less civil.
- Author Jay Caspian Kang explores how this decline in shame, a key component of human group psychology, is impacting society by encouraging self-interest over collective well-being.
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The concept of shame, historically a powerful tool for maintaining social order and encouraging empathy, is undergoing a significant transformation in contemporary society. Researchers suggest that while shame has always been a complex emotion, its role has been altered by factors such as increasing societal diversity, a move away from traditional moralistic frameworks, and the pervasive influence of the internet and social media.
Social media, in particular, is highlighted as a significant accelerator of these changes. Studies suggest that social norms are shifting at a faster rate due to the consumption of social media content, with user-generated content allowing for more niche trends and perceptions of extremity. A December 2022 survey across 19 countries revealed that a median of 46% of people believe social media has made political conversations less civil, and many also link it to increased political divisions. The anonymous nature of online interactions can enable individuals to express derogatory opinions without facing immediate, in-person consequences, contributing to a perceived decline in accountability.
While some argue that the diminution of shame’s importance, particularly in the 20th century, has led to greater acceptance of previously stigmatized behaviors and conditions, others express concern about a “dangerously shameless world.” Critics suggest that the rise of “woke culture” and an overemphasis on “inclusion” have, in some instances, led to a society where individuals are less accountable for their actions, prioritizing feelings over facts. This shift, some argue, can normalize irresponsibility and even weaponize concepts like mental health to deflect criticism.
The internet’s capacity for public shaming, often referred to as “cancel culture,” presents a paradox. While shaming has historically been used to enforce community standards, the digital age amplifies its reach, sometimes leading to disproportionate consequences and mental health impacts for those targeted. Jay Caspian Kang is among those exploring these societal shifts, suggesting that the decline of shame is contributing to a society increasingly driven by narrow self-interest, with potentially disastrous outcomes.