← Back to Concept Index

reputation-anxiety

The pervasive fear of being found out and having one's reputation irreparably harmed, which underlies the characters' actions.

1 chapter across 1 book

So You've Been Publicly Shamed (2015)Jon Ronson

Chapter 8

Michael Moynihan investigates Jonah Lehrer's fabricated Bob Dylan quotes in Lehrer's bestselling book, facing evasive responses and emotional confrontations. Despite ethical dilemmas and personal turmoil, Michael publishes the exposé, reflecting on the devastating consequences of public shaming, the terror of exposure, and the moral responsibilities of journalism. The chapter explores the complex interplay of truth, deception, and the emotional and professional fallout from media accountability.