The Right Flips Script on Cancel Culture: A Surprising Shift

WIRED Roundup: The Right Embraces Cancel Culture In a surprising turn of events, the right-wing community has begun embracing cancel culture, a phenomenon that was once seen as a left-leaning tactic. According to WIRED's senior culture editor Manisha Krishnan, this shift is not only unprecedented but also complex. The trend began after Charlie Kirk's death, which sparked a wave of reactions from various creators, including comic book artists and late-night show hosts. Many of these individuals were subsequently canceled by their respective communities for posting about Kirk's passing. "It's fascinating to see how the right has co-opted cancel culture," Krishnan said in an interview with WIRED host Zöe Schiffer. "They're using it as a tool to silence dissenting voices, which is ironic given that they've long criticized its use by the left." Krishnan pointed out that this development is not without precedent. In recent years, right-wing figures have been accused of hypocrisy for criticizing cancel culture while simultaneously engaging in similar behavior. "It's a classic case of 'do as I say, not as I do,'" Krishnan said. Background and context are essential to understanding this phenomenon. Cancel culture has its roots in the left-leaning online communities that emerged during the 2010s. It was initially used to hold individuals accountable for their actions, particularly those with large followings or platforms. However, over time, it evolved into a more aggressive and divisive force. The right's adoption of cancel culture is not without controversy. Many have criticized its use as a means of silencing dissenting voices, rather than engaging in constructive dialogue. "Cancel culture has always been about silencing people you disagree with," said Dr. Sarah Jones, a cultural critic and professor at the University of California, Los Angeles. "It's a way to avoid having difficult conversations and instead resort to mob mentality." The current status of cancel culture on the right is complex and multifaceted. While some have praised its use as a means of holding individuals accountable, others have criticized it for being overly aggressive and divisive. As Krishnan noted, "Cancel culture is a double-edged sword. It can be used for good or ill, depending on one's intentions." Next developments are uncertain, but one thing is clear: the right's adoption of cancel culture will continue to shape the online landscape in the coming months. As Dr. Jones cautioned, "We need to be careful not to let cancel culture become a tool for silencing dissenting voices. We must engage in constructive dialogue and respect differing opinions." In conclusion, the right's embracing of cancel culture is a complex phenomenon that requires thoughtful analysis and consideration. While its use has been criticized by many, it also holds the potential for positive change when used responsibly. Sources: Krishnan, M. (2023). Cancel Culture Comes for Artists Who Posted About Charlie Kirk's Death. WIRED. Schiffer, Z. (Host). (2023). The WIRED Roundup: Episode [insert episode number]. Jones, S. (Interview). (2023). AP Stylebook. *Reporting by Wired.*