People have challenged each other’s views for much of human history. But the internet – particularly social media – has changed how, when and where these kinds of interactions occur. The number of people who can go online and call out others for their behavior or words is immense, and it’s never been easier to summon groups to join the public fray.
The phrase “cancel culture” is said to have originated from a relatively obscure slang term – “cancel,” referring to breaking up with someone – used in a 1980s song. This term was then referenced in film and television and later evolved and gained traction on social media. Over the past several years, cancel culture has become a deeply contested idea in the nation’s political discourse. There are plenty of debates over what it is and what it means, including whether it’s a way to hold people accountable, or a tactic to punish others unjustly, or a mix of both. And some argue that cancel culture doesn’t even exist.
To better understand how the U.S. public views the concept of cancel culture, Pew Research Center asked Americans in September 2020 to share – in their own words – what they think the term means and, more broadly, how they feel about the act of calling out others on social media. The survey finds a public deeply divided, including over the very meaning of the phrase.
How we did this
Who’s heard of ‘cancel culture’?
As is often the case when a new term enters the collective lexicon, public awareness of the phrase “cancel culture” varies – sometimes widely – across demographic groups.
Overall, 44% of Americans say they have heard at least a fair amount about the phrase, including 22% who have heard a great deal, according to the Center’s survey of 10,093 U.S. adults, conducted Sept. 8-13, 2020. Still, an even larger share (56%) say they’ve heard nothing or not too much about it, including 38% who have heard nothing at all. (The survey was fielded before a string of recent conversations and controversies about cancel culture.)
Familiarity with the term varies with age. While 64% of adults under 30 say they have heard a great deal or fair amount about cancel culture, that share drops to 46% among those ages 30 to 49 and 34% among those 50 and older.
There are gender and educational differences as well. Men are more likely than women to be familiar with the term, as are those who have a bachelor’s or advanced degree when compared with those who have lower levels of formal education.1
While discussions around cancel culture can be highly partisan, Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents are no more likely than Republicans and GOP-leaning independents to say they have heard at least a fair amount about the phrase (46% vs. 44%). (All references to Democrats and Republicans in this analysis include independents who lean to each party.)
When accounting for ideology, liberal Democrats and conservative Republicans are more likely to have heard at least a fair amount about cancel culture than their more moderate counterparts within each party. Liberal Democrats stand out as most likely to be familiar with the term.
How do Americans define ‘cancel culture’?
As part of the survey, respondents who had heard about “cancel culture” were given the chance to explain in their own words what they think the term means.
The most common responses by far centered around accountability. Some 49% of those familiar with the term said it describes actions people take to hold others accountable:2
“Cancel culture is a movement to remove celebrity status or esteem from a person, place, or thing based on offensive behavior or transgression.”
— Woman, 30s, Liberal Democrat
“[Cancel culture is] a method of withdrawing support for public figures or companies. It can also be considered to be used as a form of online shaming on social media platforms.”
— Woman, 50s, Moderate Democrat
A small share who mentioned accountability in their definitions also discussed how these actions can be misplaced, ineffective or overtly cruel.
Some 14% of adults who had heard at least a fair amount about cancel culture described it as a form of censorship, such as a restriction on free speech or as history being erased:
“[Cancel culture is] trying to silence someone that does not have the same belief as you. Basically, [it’s] taking their First Amendment rights away. It violates affected people’s civil rights.”
— Man, 50s, Conservative Republican
“[Cancel culture] means rewriting history and stopping the acknowledgment of facts because they are offensive to a racial, religious, ethnic, economic group, etc. It is the rewriting of history to make people comfortable by ignoring facts – things that really happened – good or bad.”
— Man, 70s, Moderate, no partisan leaning
A similar share (12%) characterized cancel culture as mean-spirited attacks used to cause others harm:
“[Cancel culture is] a synonym for ‘political correctness,’ where words and phrases are taken out of context to bury the careers of people. A mob mentality.”
— Man, 20s, Liberal Democrat
“[Cancel culture is] destroying a person’s career or reputation based on past events in which that person participated, or past statements that person has made, even if their beliefs or opinions have changed.”
— Man, 50s, Conservative Republican
Five other distinct descriptions of the term cancel culture also appeared in Americans’ responses: people canceling anyone they disagree with, consequences for those who have been challenged, an attack on traditional American values, a way to call out issues like racism or sexism, or a misrepresentation of people’s actions. About one-in-ten or fewer described the phrase in each of these ways.
There were some notable partisan and ideological differences in what the term cancel culture represents. Some 36% of conservative Republicans who had heard the term described it as actions taken to hold people accountable, compared with roughly half or more of moderate or liberal Republicans (51%), conservative or moderate Democrats (54%) and liberal Democrats (59%).
Conservative Republicans who had heard of the term were more likely than other partisan and ideological groups to see cancel culture as a form of censorship. Roughly a quarter of conservative Republicans familiar with the term (26%) described it as censorship, compared with 15% of moderate or liberal Republicans and roughly one-in-ten or fewer Democrats, regardless of ideology. Conservative Republicans aware of the phrase were also more likely than other partisan and ideological groups to define cancel culture as a way for people to cancel anyone they disagree with (15% say this) or as an attack on traditional American society (13% say this).
Does calling people out on social media represent accountability or unjust punishment?
Given that cancel culture can mean different things to different people, the survey also asked about the more general act of calling out others on social media for posting content that might be considered offensive – and whether this kind of behavior is more likely to hold people accountable or punish those who don’t deserve it.
Overall, 58% of U.S. adults say in general, calling out others on social media is more likely to hold people accountable, while 38% say it is more likely to punish people who don’t deserve it. But views differ sharply by party. Democrats are far more likely than Republicans to say that, in general, calling people out on social media for posting offensive content holds them accountable (75% vs. 39%). Conversely, 56% of Republicans – but just 22% of Democrats – believe this type of action generally punishes people who don’t deserve it.
Within each party, there are some modest differences by education level in these views. Specifically, Republicans who have a high school diploma or less education (43%) are slightly more likely than Republicans with some college (36%) or at least a bachelor’s degree (37%) to say calling people out for potentially offensive posts is holding people accountable for their actions. The reverse is true among Democrats: Those with a bachelor’s degree or more education are somewhat more likely than those with a high school diploma or less education to say calling out others is a form of accountability (78% vs. 70%).
Among Democrats, roughly three-quarters of those under 50 (73%) as well as those ages 50 and older (76%) say calling out others on social media is more likely to hold people accountable for their actions. At the same time, majorities of both younger and older Republicans say this action is more likely to punish people who didn’t deserve it (58% and 55%, respectively).
People on both sides of the issue had an opportunity to explain why they see calling out others on social media for potentially offensive content as more likely to be either a form of accountability or punishment. We then coded these answers and grouped them into broad areas to frame the key topics of debates.
How was this data coded?
Some 17% of Americans who say that calling out others on social media holds people accountable say it can be a teaching moment that helps people learn from their mistakes and do better in the future. Among those who say calling out others unjustly punishes them, a similar share (18%) say it’s because people are not taking the context of a person’s post or the intentions behind it into account before confronting that person.
In all, five types of arguments most commonly stand out in people’s answers. A quarter of all adults mention topics related to whether people who call out others are rushing to judge or are trying to be helpful; 14% center on whether calling out others on social media is a productive behavior or not; 10% focus on whether free speech or creating a comfortable environment online is more important; 8% address the perceived agendas of those who call out others; and 4% focus on whether speaking up is the best action to take if people find content offensive.
Are people rushing to judge or trying to be helpful?
The most common area of opposing arguments about calling out other people on social media arises from people’s differing perspectives on whether people who call out others are rushing to judge or instead trying to be helpful.
One-in-five Americans who see this type of behavior as a form of accountability point to reasons that relate to how helpful calling out others can be. For example, some explained in an open-ended question that they associate this behavior with moving toward a better society or educating others on their mistakes so they can do better in the future. Conversely, roughly a third (35%) of those who see calling out other people on social media as a form of unjust punishment cite reasons that relate to people who call out others being rash or judgmental. Some of these Americans see this kind of behavior as overreacting or unnecessarily lashing out at others without considering the context or intentions of the original poster. Others emphasize that what is considered offensive can be subjective.
Why is it accountability?
“If presented appropriately, that’s exactly what it [calling someone out] does. It makes them or hopefully forces them to consider the nature of their actions either consciously or unconsciously. And it can add a stigma to feeling free to be offensive without forethought.”
— Man, 60s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“How can we know what others find offensive? It is too easy to ‘be offended’ and not even try to understand the issue. Have a discussion/debate. Everyone should be able to express their opinions and then agree to disagree rather than [being] close-minded and offended. Too often, people say ‘accept diversity’ but are ‘unwilling’ to listen to others’ ideas.”
— Woman, 60s, Conservative Republican
Is calling out others on social media productive behavior?
The second most common source of disagreement centers on the question of whether calling out others can solve anything: 13% of those who see calling out others as a form of punishment touch on this issue in explaining their opinion, as do 16% who see it as a form of accountability. Some who see calling people out as unjust punishment say it solves nothing and can actually make things worse. Others in this group question whether social media is a viable place for any productive conversations or see these platforms and their culture as inherently problematic and sometimes toxic. Conversely, there are those who see calling out others as a way to hold people accountable for what they post or to ensure that people consider the consequences of their social media posts.
Why is it accountability?
“I think people need to be called out when they say something offensive on social media, because if you’re brave enough to say it then you should be brave enough to be accountable for your actions and be able to deal with whatever happens because of it.”
— Woman, 50s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“Groupthink is rampant on social media, and social media rewards people who virtue signal just to get affirmation. This leads to hypersensitivity to perceived offenses and people becoming offended on behalf of another person (who may or may not be offended themselves) … Thus, some will ruthlessly attack people perceived to be in the wrong in order to get affirmation.”
— Man, 40s, Conservative Republican
Which is more important, free speech or creating a comfortable environment online?
Pew Research Center has studied the tension between free speech and feeling safe online for years, including the increasingly partisan nature of these disputes. This debate also appears in the context of calling out content on social media. Some 12% of those who see calling people out as punishment explain – in their own words – that they are in favor of free speech on social media. By comparison, 10% of those who see it in terms of accountability believe that things said in these social spaces matter, or that people should be more considerate by thinking before posting content that may be offensive or make people uncomfortable.
Why is it accountability?
“Views expressed online are just as damaging if not more damaging than views expressed in person. People who promote and validate views that hurt other people should have to deal with the consequences of their actions.”
— Identifies gender in some other way, 20s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“Freedom of speech. The cure for speech you do not like is more speech, not less. I may hate and disagree with everything you say. But I will fight to my death for your right to say it.”
— Woman, 60s, Conservative Republican
What’s the agenda behind calling out others online?
Another small share of people mention the perceived agenda of those who call out other people on social media in their rationales for why calling out others is accountability or punishment. Some people who see calling out others as a form of accountability say it’s a way to expose social ills such as misinformation, racism, ignorance or hate, or a way to make people face what they say online head-on by explaining themselves. In all, 8% of Americans who see calling out others as a way to hold people accountable for their actions voice these types of arguments.
Those who see calling others out as a form of punishment, by contrast, say it reflects people canceling anyone they disagree with or forcing their views on others. Some respondents feel people are trying to marginalize White voices and history. Others in this group believe that people who call out others are being disingenuous and doing so in an attempt to make themselves look good. In total, these types of arguments were raised by 9% of people who see calling out others as punishment.
Why is it accountability?
“Calling out offensive content forces people to confront the issue as to whether their content is actually racist, and if it is, to account for their motive in posting it.”
— Man, 30s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“These people (liberals, social justice warriors, progressives, Democrats, socialists, Marxists, communists) think everything is offensive. They also think all White people are racist. I do not agree with their definition of offensive. They are the ones that are offensive and have an agenda that will destroy this country.”
— Man, 50s, Conservative Republican
Should people speak up if they are offended?
Arguments for why calling out others is accountability or punishment also involve a small but notable share who debate whether calling others out on social media is the best course of action for someone who finds a particular post offensive. Some 5% of people who see calling out others as punishment say those who find a post offensive should not engage with the post. Instead, they should take a different course of action, such as removing themselves from the situation by ignoring the post or blocking someone if they don’t like what that person has to say. However, 4% of those who see calling out others as a form of accountability believe it is imperative to speak up because saying nothing changes nothing.
Why is it accountability?
“If you do not say something, then you are giving your tacit approval. It is important to stand against offensive behavior in all interactions not just on social media.”
— Man, 60s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“Offensive content is a matter of opinion. We are entitled to have an opinion others don’t agree with. If you don’t like something posted, don’t watch it. Unfriend the person. Delete the person’s content on your stream. I grew up in the 1960s when there was real racism.”
— Woman, 60s, Moderate Republican
Beyond these five main areas of contention, some Americans see shades of gray when it comes to calling out other people on social media and say it can be difficult to classify this kind of behavior as a form of either accountability or punishment. They note that there can be great variability from case to case, and that the efficacy of this approach is by no means uniform: Sometimes those who are being called out may respond with heartfelt apologies but others may erupt in anger and frustration.
What Americans say about cancel culture and calling out others on social media
Below, we have gathered a selection of quotes from three open-ended survey questions that address two key topics. Americans who’ve heard of the term cancel culture were asked to define what it means to them. After answering a closed-ended question about whether calling out others on social media was more likely to hold people accountable for their actions or punish people who didn’t deserve it, they were asked to explain why they held this view – that is, they were either asked why they saw it as accountability or why they saw it as punishment.
“As people are called out, there are a few of them that will change their minds about some of the rhetoric that has been ingrained in their minds. It is not all, but the more and more you correct, the narrower the scope gets. It brings the really bad cases up to the public light for their workplaces and families to understand who they are.”
— Man, 20s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“With calling out culture, people look closer at their actions, forcing them to examine what they are doing, why they are doing it, and what are the consequences of said actions.”
— Man, 30s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“The offensive content I see online – coronavirus being a hoax, Black people just wanting handouts – should be called out. But I disagree that this will make people accountable. I doubt bigots or conspiracy theorists will change their minds with a social media confrontation.”
— Woman, 30s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“If presented appropriately, that’s exactly what it [calling someone out] does. It makes them or hopefully forces them to consider the nature of their actions either consciously or unconsciously. And it can add a stigma to feeling free to be offensive without forethought.”
— Man, 60s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“People are being attacked for being White, or siting at a restaurant minding their own business, or being told to make a fist in support of who knows what, or for wearing the wrong kind of hat. Who do you consider to be the arbiter of who ‘deserves it?’ Social media is a cesspool.”
— Man, 70s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“We do have freedom of speech in our country, we may not like what someone says, but I am not sure we have the right to punish that person for their insensitivity.”
— Woman, 80s, Moderate Republican
Why is it punishment?
“Tone is very important, and tone is missing when words are typed online. Secondly, free speech is our First Amendment right. I may not agree with a person’s views, but I agree they have the right to express themselves freely.”
— Man, 30s, Moderate Republican
Why is it accountability?
“When you post content on social media, it is no different than being taped or publishing an article, essay or book. If you post something, you should own it or explain it … It is critical that we all be thoughtful about our words, including me. I have been on the receiving end of a misconception regarding my post, and I was held accountable. I learned something as well.”
— Woman, 40s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“People tend to overact or think that they are some sort of ‘thought police’ or similar because it’s easy to confront people online without any real repercussions.”
— Man, 40s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“Others are entitled to their opinion, and too often it isn’t about having a discussion but berating others for not agreeing with our point of view.”
— Woman, 20s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“Social media is designed for people to express their opinions and feelings unique to the individual. A lot of times, people jump down the throats of anything that doesn’t align with their views. So nowadays, cancel culture is a thing and too many people want to cancel anyone with an opinion that is considered not politically correct … You can’t try and silence everyone who has an opposing viewpoint to yours.”
— Man, 30s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“People on social media these days want to inflict harm upon others as there are zero consequences for their behavior.”
— Man, 50s, Moderate Republican
Why is it accountability?
“People need to confront hate when they see hate. People need to confront the dark past [that] is haunting our country. Calling out offensive content is holding people to the standard of what America should be.”
— Woman, 30s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“You are putting them publicly ‘on the spot,’ and they can’t dodge their comments.”
— Man, 70s, Moderate, no partisan leaning
Why is it punishment?
“How can we know what others find offensive? It is too easy to ‘be offended’ and not even try to understand the issue. Have a discussion/debate. Everyone should be able to express their opinions and then agree to disagree rather than [being] close-minded and offended. Too often, people say ‘accept diversity’ but are ‘unwilling’ to listen to others’ ideas.”
— Woman, 60s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“We have freedom of speech in this country. I think you should be able to post whatever you want. It’s a free country. If you don’t like it, keep scrolling. But people will yell and get upset if they find it offensive and cry like babies.”
— Woman, 30s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“Although everyone has the right to their opinion, the use of offensive content can be damaging to the recipient of the content. Therefore, accountability is necessary, especially if there is no truth to the content.”
— Man, 60s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“What some people consider racially offensive may not really be racially offensive. It seems to be one sided. As a White male, I feel that I have been put in a class of racists when I am not one. I am severely offended by what the media puts on their broadcasts.”
— Man, 50s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“It’s more important to educate than to post negative comments. Negative comments incite a defensive reaction, where education could invite conversation.”
— Woman, 40s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“I think calling people out will cause people to own up to their claims. Furthermore, more communication needs to take place where people listen to each other and try to understand different perspectives before passing judgment.”
— Woman, 50s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“The people who make the NEWS now are [those who say], ‘you [must] agree with me or I am going to SLANDER or POST anything I can about you and call you RACIST …’ The SOCIAL and NEWS media choose what offensive content is kept up or reported on and ignores any other because it is not what the NEWS and SOCIAL media agenda is.”
— Man, 70s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“I am White, female, and grew up in a predominantly White community. I live in a very White community now. Implicit bias – having racial bias when you don’t even realize – is a challenge to me. I was raised believing that racial and ethnic slurs and jokes were OK, even accepted. I am trying to do better, but sometimes I slip up. I shouldn’t be punished for that.”
— Woman, 50s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“Everyone has an opinion. Freedom of speech shouldn’t be silenced. If you don’t like what someone has to say, stay away.”
— Woman, 50s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“Some don’t realize a racist post or comment is even racist. I am working on being antiracist and would apologize or delete any post that is offensive and would be glad to know it was so. This is a relearning process and I am willing to take the time to do so.”
— Woman, 60s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“I feel too many people who are using social media are not being thoughtful about what they post or concerned with citing sources … I think if more people took strong stands against these negative, false, poorly thought out posts, social media could transform into a forum to understand each other’s opinions and learn more about each other.”
— Woman, 30s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“If you do not say something, then you are giving your tacit approval. It is important to stand against offensive behavior in all interactions not just on social media.”
— Man, 60s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“The Mayor of Tucson publicly denounced a man as a White supremacist because of a photo of a Confederate flag he shared several years ago. That man was trying to get a blue line painted in front of police department headquarters. He then received death threats after she came after him.”
— Man, 50s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“It’s a pack mentality, taking a minor offense and exploiting it to look good to the pack.”
— Man, 70s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“Offensive content is a matter of opinion. We are entitled to have an opinion others don’t agree with. If you don’t like something posted, don’t watch it. Unfriend the person. Delete the person’s content on your stream. I grew up in the 1960s when there was real racism.”
— Woman, 60s, Moderate Republican
Why is it punishment?
“[People] can’t make a normal comment without the left wing socialist racial Democrats making a lie out of it.”
— Man, 70s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“Not everyone sees something as offensive, and often an innocuous remark about something is blown way out of proportion.”
— Woman, 40s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“Offensive content perpetuates racism, and as a community we need to work on being antiracist. Offensive content marginalizes people and that is not a society I want to uphold. While I may not perceive something as racist, others might. So why would I object to changing something that will make others feel better?”
— Woman, 30s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“If no one calls them out, they wouldn’t know that their friends disapprove of that behavior, and would miss out on that incentive to change.”
— Man, 80s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“Canceling people for free speech or banning them from sites for exhibiting free speech is unacceptable.”
— Man, 70s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“People that make racial slurs or jokes are setting an example that these stereotypes are acceptable, true or funny. This should be pointed out as nothing of the sort.”
— Man, 70s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“There’s a whole lot of reverse discrimination going on right now where people are being discriminated against or hated simply because of the color of their skin: White. The media doesn’t report when Black people or cops kill White people. They only report what will fuel their agenda of pitting Blacks vs. Whites and making Whites look bad. But generalizing that all White people are bad and hate Black people is absolutely wrong and creates more racism and doesn’t help solve anything.”
— Woman, 40s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“Many times, we cannot see the source or reasoning or driving forces from what we see online. Although calling out offensive content holds many people and organizations to a higher standard and is necessary and vital, often social media can have an effect of a mob mentality and swift judgement when situations are more complex.”
— Woman, 20s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“Because if a non-Black person suggested that we create a ‘White’ student union or a ‘White’ television channel, they would be chastised.”
— Woman, 40s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“Social media is rampant with trolls and sensitive individuals who are looking to be outraged. Therefore, many people are unjustly censored or attacked.”
— Man, 30s, Moderate, no partisan leaning
Why is it punishment?
“Freedom of speech. The cure for speech you do not like is more speech, not less. I may hate and disagree with everything you say. But I will fight to my death for your right to say it.”
— Woman, 60s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“People seem to be actively looking for something to be offended by and to be outraged about. No one seems to consider whether a person intended to offend, or simply made an unfortunate choice of words out of ignorance.”
— Woman, 50s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“[Calling someone out] brings attention to someone’s ignorance on a topic. It can also propel them to educate themselves so that they are aware, in tune, and sensitive to the plight of others.”
— Man, 40s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“I think, generally, people are looking for the drama and to start a problem. Whether insensitive or not, I believe most do not intend harm with most of what they say or do. Education is necessary, but angry tyrants are not the way to educate. I also feel that too much attention is being given to the tyrants and taken away from those whose beliefs and opinions are no longer ‘popular.’”
— Woman, 30s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“Right now, there is a mob mentality. I think 98% or more of people are against racism. Publicly shaming someone on social media doesn’t do anything but make people mad at one another. If someone posts something truly racist, it needs to be reported to the social media staff.”
— Man, 40s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“Why don’t they just ignore it? It’s not their job to be social, moral, or ethical police of social media!!”
— Man, 60s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“Silence tacitly condones the offensive action and encourages more of it.”
— Man, 60s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“In my experience on Facebook, disagreements have provoked long conversation threads and in some instances deeper understanding. Only a few people have broken off communication. Personally, I like to point [out] name calling, because it short circuits any conversation. Usually, that person drops out of the thread. We never find out if they’re bots or people.”
— Woman, 70s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“They need to justify what they posted, which makes them think before posting.”
— Woman, 30s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“It makes Whites look like evil mobsters. If a Republican calls out lies, the far left burns cities. I’m sick and tired of the way the media makes hardened criminals look like saints. The mainstream media spills lies and half-truths.”
— Man, 60s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“People who hold offensive opinions, post offensive content, etc., should be able to be confronted and held accountable. If ‘X’ posts something undeniably racist or discriminatory, it should be okay to call them ‘racist.’”
— Man, 40s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“People can be held accountable for what they post. A screenshot to a superior at work or a potential client can affect someone.”
— Woman, 40s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“Sometimes, they may just share something too quickly without thinking about real people and their circumstances.”
— Woman, 70s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“Some of my liberal friends suffer from White guilt and they want others to feel the same. If you don’t agree with their view of White privilege, you’re automatically called racist. My feeling is, as soon as they call out skin color, it becomes racist.”
— Man, 60s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“Because people may not realize what they posted is offensive; because by calling them out they may avoid posting offensive comments; because many of us will realize the depth of hate in our country and we may try to do something about it.”
— Woman, 80s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“We have free speech in this country. People who say offensive things can be blocked. Policing speech is more terrifying than offensive speech, which leads to natural consequences. Most people will not listen to or follow a bigot. That’s the consequence, not the speech police.”
— Woman, 60s, Moderate Republican
Why is it accountability?
“By calling [offensive content] out, you make others aware that it is not acceptable. Silence on these subjects is the same as agreement. Calling it out brings awareness to others who might not know it is offensive.”
— Woman, 60s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“Because lying lefties see ‘offensive’ all the time because they like to assume moral superiority over others.”
— Man, 70s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“I have seen so many Youtubers and influencers who have had to come forward and apologize for using offensive language, for example, after being called out … The real issue would be for them to transform their hearts as well … Everyone messes up, we learn and mature from our mistakes … ‘Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone.’ John 8:7”
— Woman, 20s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“Silence is being complicit with the actions, where inaction allows the offensive individual [to have] increased feelings of acceptance.”
— Man, 30s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“Calling people out only fuels the fire. [You] need to handle it like a bratty child, stop giving them attention!!”
— Woman, 30s, Moderate Republican
Why is it punishment?
“People have lost jobs and been canceled by their opinions posted on social media. You deserve a RIGHT to express your opinion on social media without fear of repercussion or retaliation. People need to tolerate other positions. If you lose a friend who is intolerant, SO WHAT? But trying to punish people is WAY OFF the charts.”
— Man, 60s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“I think this country is far too politically correct and sensitive. The slightest innocent phrase sets off people to see something that was not remotely intended. We need to have thicker skins and earn respect. Offensive content is in the eye of the beholder and we do have or used to have freedom of speech.”
— Woman, 60s, Moderate Republican
Why is it punishment?
“These people (liberals, social justice warriors, progressives, Democrats, socialists, Marxists, communists) think everything is offensive. They also think all White people are racist. I do not agree with their definition of offensive. They are the ones that are offensive and have an agenda that will destroy this country.”
— Man, 50s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“People often overreact in both directions. Remember, ‘A man convinced against his will is of the same opinion still.’ I don’t have a good answer. Completely integrated schools (starting [in] preschool) will do the most good. I never SAW a Black student on campus with me until about 1956.”
— Man, 90s, Conservative Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“It depends largely on how [calling out another person] is done. But if done respectfully yet unapologetically, it lets others who are likely to be followers of the easiest path know it’s not ok with ‘everyone.’ Sometimes putting up an objection can turn the tide.”
— Woman, 60s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“Most of the time, offensive statements are taken out of context or no one bothers to gather all of the facts or research the situation in which they were said.”
— Man, 30s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“[Calling someone out] is the closest thing we have to crowd control on social media. Social media platforms can create an empty space where people feel they can post whatever without consequence. You can’t do that in the real world, mostly because [people] know they might get called out (or hit) in person for saying/doing something similar.”
— Man, 30s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“It’s often jokes, or done in a joking manner. True racism and discrimination should be called out, but humor should be a more open field.”
— Man, 40s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“People have knee-jerk reactions to half-baked information, and there is far more misinformation than accurate information on social media.”
— Man, 30s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“Because they can see how their words affect other people. Additionally, they might be compelled to respond and explain their views.”
— Woman, 40s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“Too often, people try to punish others for alleged offensive content without understanding why the person posted something, what their frame of mind was or what their intent was. Some things are not offensive, or intended as such. Those things that clearly are offensive should be called out.”
— Man, 50s, Conservative Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“Because offensive content that is posted allows for the offender to feel more brash with their beliefs while also feeling safe behind the virtual barrier of the internet. However, being called out by someone in the virtual sense can check a person’s brazen comments and highlight that their belief is not okay and offensive … which hopefully causes them to reflect and reevaluate the offensive nature of this content.”
— Woman, 20s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“Political bias is one major issue. ‘Politically correct’ was a joke in the 1970s, now it’s the norm. So there are roughly two groups, one of which calls out what they perceive as offensive left-wing content and another which calls out offensive material [that is] … conservative content which they perceive as offensive. Social media is an unequal field where the noisy dominate. It’s why I won’t use it.”
— Man, 70s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“Racist behavior is cowardly. When people are called out for their behavior, they are no longer able to hide behind the cowards’ haven of anonymity.”
— Man, 70s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“Social media makes it simple to share thoughts and ideas that are untrue, misleading or not well thought out. Calling out people holds them accountable to disseminate information that is accurate.”
— Woman, 40s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“People have adopted social media as a platform to espouse hate and discord. Although there are elements of this ‘calling out’ that are far too oversensitive, … the ability to respond in real time to this hate in the end does hold them to account. The blatant racism, hatred and ignorance spewed by these sick people has become far too commonplace … Focus on the most egregious cases.”
— Man, 40s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“It is important for hate speech to be labeled as such and for countervailing voices to present arguments in opposition.”
— Man, 40s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“Mobs on social media often act before they have all the facts.”
— Woman, 60s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“Silence equals agreement. If it is wrong, people should say so. If people say so, that might cause the person posting it to rethink their point of view. [It] encourages discussion.”
— Woman, 50s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“[Calling someone out] is all just virtue signaling.”
— Man, 50s, Moderate Republican
Why is it accountability?
“Everybody talks, but the change starts with us. Nothing is going to change if we don’t treat each other as humans.”
— Man, 30s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“Even if they don’t change their opinion, [calling someone out] may make them think twice before spreading the hatred.”
— Woman, 60s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“[Calling someone out] at least stops the echo chamber effect on social media a little bit, not a ton. It isn’t perfect, but hopefully more people seeing more opinions makes people realize that not everything is a binary choice.”
— Man, 30s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“Social media is conveniently anonymous in many instances, and people can say anything they want even if untrue without being called to account. But if someone posts a different view, woe to them.”
— Woman, 80s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“I think people need to be called out when they say something offensive on social media, because if you’re brave enough to say it then you should be brave enough to be accountable for your actions and be able to deal with whatever happens because of it.”
— Woman, 50s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“Not all people may agree it’s offensive, and callout conversations are best had privately, not publicly.”
— Man, 30s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“When people post online, it should be a free platform of expression and others should not be calling people out for their own opinions, just because they differ from their own. Social media can be punishing because when others target someone for their thoughts it can be hurtful or degrading. If someone doesn’t like another person’s opinion they should unfollow or keep scrolling – not ‘call each other out.’”
— Woman, 20s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“Staying silent means you agree. If you call out when people do something hurtful to others, you make sure they understand. Otherwise they think you agree with them.”
— Woman, 60s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“That is what calling out is: calling attention to the behavior is holding them accountable.”
— Woman, 60s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“Calling someone out on social media is not going to make any change. It is simply going to create more disruption where people who feel strongly on either side become trolls who say awful things.”
— Woman, 40s, Moderate Republican
Why is it punishment?
“Everyone is entitled to an opinion. Just because my opinion doesn’t match another person’s opinion is no reason for either of us to call the other person out. The ramifications rarely are justified.”
— Man, 50s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“Calling out offensive content forces people to confront the issue as to whether their content is actually racist, and if it is, to account for their motive in posting it.”
— Man, 30s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“Because taking offense is a choice, and punishing someone for expressing themselves is an infringement on someone’s free speech. I think only violence and sexy images should be something someone has a choice to look at or not. Don’t punish people for social justice warrior ideas.”
— Woman, 30s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“People want to take an attitude that if someone else does not agree with them, then that person is totally wrong, and an enemy. There seems to be no ground for understanding that legitimate disagreements can and do exist. The only safe way to deal with someone who expresses a point of view different from your own is to scroll past, and make no response at all.”
— Man, 70s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“I feel that no one should be able to post ANYTHING that is racist or hurtful to anyone regardless of their race, religion, color, ethnicity.”
— Woman, 50s, Democrat, no ideological leaning
Why is it accountability?
“Notoriety and embarrassment are useful tools.”
— Man, 70s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“There’s currently a ‘cancel culture’ where even trivial things are found ‘offensive’ by someone. A mob of angry people then show up to bully that person into taking it down. Today, it seems everything is deemed racist and people’s skin color seems to precede every action and description of a person. That is racism.”
— Man, 40s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“[Calling someone out] should be done, but likely won’t be effective either…. I dislike and have purposefully limited my exposure to social media in the last six months because I don’t feel it is healthy or leads to better discussion of anything important.”
— Man, 40s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“While many people get offended unnecessarily, truly offensive content is too easy to publish and share without true accountability because of the remoteness of social media. You can post memes that you might never have the courage to say to the face of the person/people represented in the meme.”
— Woman, 40s, Conservative Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“Groupthink is rampant on social media, and social media rewards people who virtue signal just to get affirmation. This leads to hypersensitivity to perceived offenses and people becoming offended on behalf of another person (who may or may not be offended themselves) … Thus, some will ruthlessly attack people perceived to be in the wrong in order to get affirmation.”
— Man, 40s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“[Calling someone out] puts their back against the wall where they have to explain the basis for their post and are then open to rebuttal.”
— Woman, 60s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“They may not realize what they said was offensive or hurtful. Education is how people and groups change.”
— Man, 30s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“I don’t think social media arguments have any significant impact that is positive. However, if someone posts something offensive, I would prefer they be held accountable than not.”
— Man, 30s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“Views expressed online are just as damaging if not more damaging than views expressed in person. People who promote and validate views that hurt other people should have to deal with the consequences of their actions.”
— Identifies gender in some other way, 20s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“As far as I can tell, social media is a free-for-all for pornographers and torturers, but quite likely to bring down a firestorm upon the head of the village idiot for anything that is perceived to be racist, sexist, etc. … Social media by its nature tends to filter out nuance … So, people are being hounded for single statements without taking into account the totality of that person’s belief-system.”
— Woman, 40s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“I myself was blocked from Facebook for 60 days for saying the word ‘trash.’ I didn’t deserve that punishment.”
— Man, 50s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“Many hide behind screens to say hurtful things with no oversight or consequences. They will think twice before saying hurtful comments if accountability is in place.”
— Man, 40s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“Because often the punishment doesn’t fit the crime. ‘Cancel culture’ can exaggerate offense and result in real harm.”
— Woman, 60s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“Calling someone out for posting something offensive or fake news IS holding them accountable for that action. Whether or not the person called out cares about being held accountable or will actually change is another matter.”
— Woman, 60s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“With freedom of speech, anyone can post their own thoughts. It is up to the reader if they want to engage in debate or not. Anything can be taken different ways by different people.”
— Woman, 60s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“People need to be held accountable for their actions. Just because someone has a different view on something does not make them or you right. However, when people are verbally abusing someone, they need correction.”
— Woman, 40s, Conservative Republican
Why is it punishment?
“If your views are liberal, you can say anything. If your views are conservative, you will be censored.”
— Woman, 50s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“Hopefully [calling someone out] makes them think about how ridiculous or offensive they sound. That’s the best case scenario. Most people who post offensive content enjoy the attention even if it’s the negative type.”
— Woman, 40s, Moderate Republican
Why is it punishment?
“I got fired from my job because I would not support Black Lives Matter.”
— Woman, 60s, Conservative Republican
Why is it accountability?
“[Calling someone out] makes them stop and think about their behavior and how it affects other people, leading to further and more meaningful thought about future behavior.”
— Woman, 60s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“If expressed properly, a reprimand can become a ‘teaching moment’ for the poster and/or for the people following the discussion … Cruel or offensive comments are hurtful to the entire community: to those who say them, to those who read them, to those to whom they are directed … Offensive comments must be addressed or defused in a way that can bring more positive understanding to the discussion. One changed mind is worth the effort. From my experience, the bullies go silent.”
— Woman, 70s, Moderate Democrat
Why is it accountability?
“Because the only purpose of calling someone out is to hold them accountable. Whether they see themselves through another’s eyes and hold themselves accountable, though, nothing will change.”
— Woman, 40s, Liberal Democrat
Why is it punishment?
“Social media has gotten to a point that people who do not publicly express their views are often shamed for that, and that is not okay. There is way too much hate on both sides currently, and it is so upsetting to see bullying [aimed at] people choosing to silently support the movement.”
I am a simple God-fearing, Bible-believing man. A sinner who by the free gift of grace from God, and the Sacrifice made by the Lord Jesus Christ for my sin has been transformed, born anew, to serve the Lord my God as best I humbly can with my limited gifts. I've been directed to do this work. Even though at times I've fought and resisted doing it. I don't deserve anything but condemnation were it not for the mercy, forgiveness, grace, and love of God the Father, Jesus Lord of my life, and the work of the Holy Spirit.
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