The phenomenon of “cancel culture” has become a prominent feature of online discourse, where individuals or brands are publicly called out and boycotted for perceived transgressions. A recent study published in the journal Acta Psychologica explored the psychological underpinnings of why some people are more inclined to engage in canceling behaviors than others. The study reveals that how central political identity is to an individual’s self-concept — referred to as “political identity centrality” — increases the likelihood of participating in cancel culture. Cancelling refers to the phenomenon where individuals or groups use Social media to call out and apply social sanctions against a person or brand due to perceived transgressions. This often involves public criticism that can lead to boycotts, loss of reputation, or other forms of public shaming. It’s a modern form of social ostracism that harnesses the connectivity and amplifying power of social networks, allowing collective disapproval to be broadcasted widely and rapidly. Despite its prevalence and significant impact on public discourse, the motivations and underlying factors that lead individuals to engage in …

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