Future of reputation
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Solove discusses the tension between privacy and free speech. Where should the line be drawn? Should people have a “right to be forgotten” on the internet?
Solove talks about the tension between privacy and free speech, but honestly, there isn’t much free speech left anymore, not like it used to be. These days, people are getting hurt or even killed just for making a comment, standing up for their rights, or trying to teach others something new. The idea of drawing a clear line between privacy and free speech feels impossible. People keep trying, but someone always crosses that line or twists someone’s words until it destroys their life.
There are also those who chase celebrities, or even regular people, just to profit off their lives, tastes, or mistakes. Some do it for money, others just for their own satisfaction. I think that it is
sick, but there is no real way to stop it. Solove might be hopeful about finding balance, but in reality, there’s so much to fix and no easy solution.
These days, we do not even feel safe in our own homes. Technology listens to us, maybe even watches us, which is why we cover our computer cameras. Nobody wants to be watched, heard, or exposed, because that comes with the risk of public humiliation.
And yes, I do believe people should have the right to be forgotten, especially after being publicly shamed. We are human, we make mistakes, sometimes daily. Why should anyone have to carry that shame forever? People have even taken their own lives because they could not bear the weight of online shaming. Then, after it is too late, others suddenly feel regret or guilt. But why push someone that far to begin with? Not everyone has thick skin. I know I don’t, even a comment or a look can get under my skin.
What is happening online is horrible, but I do not see a way to truly stop it. Sure, some countries limit internet access, but that takes away freedom too. Maybe teaching kindness from childhood could help a little, but jealousy, hurt, and resentment will always exist. Some people just want to hurt others when they are hurting themselves, and they don’t care about the consequences.
Sadly, there is no perfect fix. The best we can do is be careful about where we are, what we say, and how much of ourselves we share, because once something is out there, we cannot take it back.
How does the permanence of online content affect young people’s freedom to experiment, make mistakes, and grow? Should society be more forgiving of people’s digital pasts?
As I mentioned before, we really must be aware of where we are, who we are with, and our surroundings. I have noticed some people just want to film everything and share it online instead of actually living in the moment. Why not just put the phone down and enjoy life? It’s fine to take a few pictures or short videos to remember a special moment, I do it too, but that does not mean we should be recording people to make fun of them or use it against them later.
This generation has it especially hard because the internet never forgets. They won’t have the same chance to be forgiven the way people used to. Some will live with shame for years, some
might take their own lives because they can’t carry the weight, and others will grow angry and bitter, holding on to grudges and hate unless they somehow find healing or love to help them change.
As for whether society should be more forgiving… I think it should be, but when people are deeply hurt or broken inside, forgiveness feels almost impossible. When someone’s pride is attacked or their heart is broken, they want others to feel the same pain. They will do whatever it takes to make that happen.
The truth is, even if we try to set an example by showing love and forgiveness, it doesn’t always work. No matter how much kindness you give, there will always be people who try to hurt you back. So, while forgiveness sounds good in theory, in reality, it feels like it barely matters.
What role should schools and educators play in teaching digital ethics and online reputation management?
Schools and educators should play the role of setting a good example and teaching that respect and forgiveness are necessary if we want a better world. But honestly, there is only so much schools can do if parents, or whoever the child lives with, are not also doing their part.
People tend to follow what others do, not just what they say. I go to school because I know it is good for me, but also because it is something my parents wanted for themselves but did not get the chance to achieve. I am determined not to give up; sadly, not everyone has that same drive to learn, to grow, or to choose kindness. It is easier to hate than to love.
Teachers can only do so much, especially when young minds are constantly online, surrounded by media that glorifies hate and negativity, making it seem fun, cool, or even attractive. That is a tough thing to fight against.
Therefore, in the end, all educators can really do is try, by giving lectures, setting examples, and doing their best to guide students. There are so many limitations, but even if it is a small impact, it is worth trying.
