Shame Machine

Viac o knihe

This book delivers a clear-eyed warning about the destructive influence of America's "shame industrial complex" in the era of social media and hyperpartisan politics. Shame can be a powerful tool for reinforcing fairness and justice, particularly when targeting corrupt politicians or abusive celebrities. However, the author argues that shaming has evolved into a dangerous weapon, shifting responsibility for social issues from institutions to individuals. By shaming children for not affording school lunches or adults for unemployment, society avoids addressing systemic problems, leading to a reluctance to fund necessary programs. The book examines how governments, corporations, and the healthcare system exploit this culture of shame, with troubling examples from rehab clinics, reentry programs, and social media platforms that profit from targeting the vulnerable. Intertwined with these themes is the author's personal struggle with body image and her decision to undergo weight-loss surgery, highlighting her journey to overcome shame. The book thoughtfully dissects the dynamics of shame and power, questioning who benefits from the current system, the effectiveness of calling out harmful behaviors, and how to challenge the cycle of shaming. Ultimately, it encourages readers to consider ways to resist and combat this pervasive issue.