Explanation
Public shaming has existed historically (e.g., stocks, pillories) and continues today in digital forms such as online shaming, doxxing, or cancel culture. It functions as an informal but powerful sanction that can cause reputational harm, social exclusion, and lasting stigma. While sometimes justified as moral accountability, it raises concerns about disproportionate punishment and lack of due process.
Theoretical Reference
Goffman’s stigma, labelling theory, Durkheim’s collective conscience.