Collective moral outrage is the shared sense of anger or indignation that people feel towards an action, event, or situation that violates their values or beliefs. It can be seen as a way for individuals to express their discontent and protest against something they find unacceptable or wrong.
This form of expression often reveals underlying social hierarchies and ethical priorities that are not always obvious or explicit. In this essay, I will explore how collective moral outrage reflects implicit social hierarchies and ethical priorities and how it contributes to perpetuating power imbalances and discrimination in society.
When people come together to express their outrage, they often do so through language and actions that demonstrate their cultural norms and values.
When feminists criticize the objectification of women's bodies in advertising, they are exposing their opposition to sexism and patriarchy. Similarly, when activists condemn police brutality, they are drawing attention to racism and racial bias. These reactions may be motivated by genuine concern for others but also reflect the personal interests of those who participate in them. By focusing on certain issues and ignoring others, people can reinforce existing power structures and biases without even realizing it.
Collective moral outrage has the potential to create divisions within groups and between different communities. When people feel strongly about an issue, they may demonize those who hold opposing views, creating a polarization that further entrenches preexisting beliefs. This can lead to increased tension and violence, as we have seen in recent years with political protests and riots.
Collective moral outrage can be used as a weapon against marginalized groups, as was evident during the MeToo movement, where many men were accused of sexual misconduct based on unverified allegations and insufficient evidence.
Collective moral outrage can also serve as a catalyst for positive change. It can bring attention to important social issues and raise awareness about systemic problems that might otherwise go unnoticed. It can also inspire individuals to take action and work towards solutions that address these issues.
After the murder of George Floyd, there was widespread outrage over police brutality and systemic racism, leading to nationwide demonstrations and calls for reform.
While collective moral outrage is a powerful tool for expressing dissatisfaction with societal norms, it also reveals implicit social hierarchies and ethical priorities that perpetuate inequality and discrimination. To make progress towards more equitable and just societies, we need to be mindful of how our reactions reflect our own biases and prejudices and engage in meaningful dialogue with those who hold different perspectives. Only then can we create lasting change that benefits all members of society.
How does collective moral outrage reveal implicit social hierarchies and ethical priorities?
Collective moral outrage is a phenomenon that can be observed across various contexts, including politics, sports, and entertainment. It typically arises when an individual or group perceives a violation of their moral standards, which they believe should be upheld by society. When this occurs, individuals may express their anger and disgust through public demonstrations, boycotts, or other forms of protest.