Celebrity actress Sydney Sweeney has faced a vicious online backlash after bikini photos of her surfaced on the internet. The negative comments, which included body shaming and personal attacks, are a prime example of how social media can enable abusive behavior.
The online reaction is not unique to Sweeney, as she is far from being the only celebrity to face similar treatment. However, what’s notable about this incident is that it has sparked a wider conversation about the societal pressures placed on women to conform to traditional beauty standards and the impact of social media on public shaming.
Experts point to the rise of “ressentiment,” a sense of hostility towards perceived moral infractions, as a driving force behind the backlash. This phenomenon is often linked to lonely men’s online communities, which can fuel misogynistic emotions and contribute to increased misogyny.
Studies have shown that women spend an average of 45 minutes per day “grooming” to meet beauty standards, only to face criticism when these standards are not met. The internet can amplify this, making it easier for people to participate in social surveillance and shaming.
While there is no quick fix to the issue of online misogyny and public shaming, acknowledging the societal pressures and implications involved is a crucial step towards change. By recognizing the impact of beauty standards on moral worth and the role of social media in perpetuating this cycle, we can begin to work towards a more inclusive and accepting online culture.
The incident has sparked a significant response from fans and followers, with many defending Sweeney against the negative comments. This highlights that not everyone is bought into the societal pressure to shame women for their appearance.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/callumbooth/2024/12/17/sydney-sweeney-bikini-photos-the-internets-awful-reaction-explained