Public shaming online: IELTS essay ideas

Some people believe that publicly criticising others online for their mistakes is a good way to change social behaviour. I disagree with this view, because the practice usually causes more harm than good.

Supporters of online shaming claim that it holds people accountable. Powerful individuals and companies who behave unethically may escape official punishment, and public pressure can force them to apologise or change their policies. A restaurant exposed for mistreating staff, for example, may quickly improve its conduct once customers react. Social media also gives a voice to ordinary people who were previously ignored, and the fear of being named may deter some unacceptable behaviour.

However, the disadvantages are serious. Online criticism is often disproportionate: a single careless remark or a video taken out of context can lead to thousands of abusive messages, loss of employment and even threats to the person's family. There is no fair process in which the accused can explain, and mistakes of fact are common, so innocent people have been wrongly identified and attacked. The punishment rarely fits the offence, and the content may remain searchable for years, long after the individual has learned from the error. Shaming also encourages anger rather than reflection; people who feel humiliated tend to become defensive instead of changing their views. For young people especially, the experience can lead to depression and anxiety.

More constructive alternatives exist. Serious wrongdoing should be reported to the authorities or addressed through formal complaints, while minor errors are better corrected through private, respectful conversation or education. Platforms should also act against harassment.

In conclusion, although online shaming can occasionally expose misconduct, its cruelty, lack of fairness and limited effect on behaviour make it a poor tool for improving society.