47 pages • 1 hour read
So You've Been Publicly Shamed
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Book Brief
310
Book • Nonfiction
2010s
2015
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
So You've Been Publicly Shamed by Jon Ronson explores the phenomenon of public shaming in the age of social media, examining its impacts through case studies, interviews, and historical analysis, ultimately cautioning against hasty online judgments. The book deeply investigates the causes, effects, and methods of overcoming and managing public humiliation while emphasizing justice and redemption. The book discusses sexual assault, misogyny, violent threats, child abuse, racial stereotypes, Holocaust imagery, and suicidal ideation.
Informative
Unnerving
Contemplative
Dark
Reviews & Readership
73,414 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jon Ronson's So You've Been Publicly Shamed receives praise for its engaging storytelling and insightful exploration of modern digital shaming. Critics appreciate Ronson's empathetic narrative and thorough research, though some feel the book lacks depth in its analysis and misses broader implications. Overall, it’s seen as a compelling, thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read So You've Been Publicly Shamed?
Readers who enjoy So You've Been Publicly Shamed by Jon Ronson are likely interested in the dynamics of social media, public shaming, and digital ethics. Comparable to The Circle by Dave Eggers or Amusing Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman, this book appeals to those intrigued by societal behaviors and internet culture.
73,414 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Jonah Lehrer
Jonah Lehrer
A writer of popular science texts who faced significant public shaming after being exposed for fabricating quotes in his book Imagine: How Creativity Works, serving as an example in Ronson's exploration of public shaming.
Michael Moynihan
Michael Moynihan
An investigative journalist who uncovered Jonah Lehrer's fabrications, an event used by Ronson to illustrate the impact of exposing ethical breaches and the potential psychological toll on the whistleblower.
Justine Sacco
Justine Sacco
A public relations professional whose life was significantly impacted by a viral tweet that led to widespread public shaming, with her experiences frequently discussed in Ronson's examination of social media dynamics.
310
Book • Nonfiction
2010s
2015
Adult
18+ years
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