Princess Snell's Rape Joke on Social Media Backfires

Starlet Natalie Hart or popular known as “Princess Snell” recently became a trending topic on Twitter and Facebook because of her controversial post on Instagram. This was not received by the netizens as a joke.

           Hart apologized after and posted her apology on Twitter saying, “I do not promote nor support that behavior! I'm against domestic violence and rape! It was a bad joke and I'm extremely sorry.”  As someone who is popular and followed by many in social media, she should be responsible for everything that she posts. Rape is a very sensitive topic just like suicide; it should never be glamorized or worse, made into a joke. She probably acted on her right to speak freely whatever she wants, but freedom of speech does not equate to irresponsible speech.

          In this light, author David Gordon in his book Controversies in Media Ethics, provided a model in evaluating ethical communication in Media:

1. Consider the purpose of a particular expression to understand intentions and motivations.

Why is someone saying this? Why might they be feeling this way? What thinking

might be behind this expressive action?

2. Examine the platform of an expression to become aware of the potential audience for,

as well as the form of, the expression. Who is likely to view, hear or read this expression?

Will the form keep the expression among a few individuals or will it be conveyed

around the world?

3. Review practices to comprehend the process of creating the message form and its

content. How was this expression determined? Is there a more responsible way to

express this message and convey it to those who need to hear it?

4. Envision potentials to focus attention on possible or probable effects or consequences

of conveying an expression. What might happen if I say this? Will it hurt or help

someone? Is the hurt justified because it will help others? To what extent will this

message harm someone and is it worth the harm?

          I feel that this model should exactly solve dilemmas before posting something on social media. This is also useful for news reporters to guide them before giving personal opinions or commentaries.

Even if Hart a.k.a. Princess Snell made her apology, she should still get a lesson on responsible freedom of expression. An apology is never an excuse for not being apprehended or sanctioned on an action which can greatly impact a group of people, on her case, the people who are victims of rape.

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