Read the passage about Cancel Culture and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 26 to 35.

Cancel Culture

Cancel culture has become one of the most debated phenomena in today's digital society. At its core, it refers to the practice of publicly shaming or withdrawing support from individuals or organizations that are perceived to have violated social norms. While public shaming has existed for centuries, the internet has transformed its speed and reach. [I] This immediacy has made cancel culture a powerful tool of accountability, but also a source of controversy regarding fairness, freedom of expression, and the potential for harm.

Historically, social movements such as the abolitionist campaigns or the Civil Rights Movement relied on boycotts and public pressure to demand justice. [II] Cancel culture can be seen as a modern extension of these tactics, amplified by digital technology. Online platforms allow communities to mobilize quickly, using hashtags, petitions, or viral posts to call out perceived misconduct. Influencers and celebrities play a crucial role in shaping these narratives, either intensifying criticism or helping to mitigate its effects. The involvement of high-profile figures often determines whether a cancellation succeeds or fades away, highlighting the complex interplay between public opinion and media influence.

The consequences of cancel culture are wide-ranging. For individuals, the impact can include reputational damage, loss of employment, and even psychological distress. [III] At the same time, public pressure can lead to positive outcomes, such as policy changes or greater awareness of discrimination and injustice. Yet critics warn of negative effects: the chilling of free speech, disproportionate punishment, and the spread of misinformation. Because online judgments are often made quickly and without due process, people may face condemnation for statements taken out of context or exaggerated by viral content. This lack of nuance raises concerns about whether cancel culture truly promotes justice or simply fuels polarization.

Looking ahead, cancel culture is likely to evolve alongside technology and social movements. Artificial intelligence and algorithms may further amplify online criticism, while platforms will continue to struggle with balancing free speech and community safety. The future of cancel culture will depend on how societies adapt whether they foster media literacy, encourage critical thinking, and design fairer systems of accountability. [IV] Ultimately, cancel culture reflects both the power and the risks of digital communities. It can hold individuals accountable for harmful actions, but it must be tempered with fairness, empathy, and respect for human dignity to avoid becoming destructive.

Read the leaflet about Cruise: Destination of Your Dreams and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your a...