WIRED Roundup: The Right Embraces Cancel Culture

Cancel culture, the act of boycotting individuals or organizations for expressing views deemed controversial or offensive, has been a hotly debated topic in recent years. While traditionally associated with progressive movements, there is a growing trend of conservatives embracing cancel culture as a tool to hold their opponents accountable. This shift has sparked a wave of debate within conservative circles, with some arguing that cancel culture is a necessary tool for fighting back against perceived injustices.

One of the most notable examples of the right embracing cancel culture is the #CancelNetflix campaign that emerged following the release of the controversial film “Cuties.” Conservative activists and politicians called for a boycott of the streaming platform, arguing that the film sexualized young girls and promoted pedophilia. The campaign garnered widespread attention and reignited the debate over the role of cancel culture in society.

Conservative media outlets and personalities have also played a significant role in promoting cancel culture within their own ranks. Talk show hosts and news commentators have been quick to call out and condemn individuals within their own movement who deviate from the party line, leading to a growing trend of self-censorship among conservative voices.

While the right’s embrace of cancel culture may be seen as a strategic move to level the playing field in the culture war, critics argue that it stifles free speech and silences dissenting voices. The debate over cancel culture is likely to continue as both sides grapple with the implications of using social media and online activism to police public discourse.

Despite the controversy surrounding the issue, one thing is clear: cancel culture is here to stay, and its impact on the political and social landscape is only expected to grow in the coming years. As the right continues to embrace cancel culture as a means of pushing back against perceived threats to their values, the debate over its effectiveness and consequences will likely intensify.