Complicating Fandom Dynamics
Conversations regarding context in contemporary media are born from how to morally handle controversy; or rather, how to handle the problematic past of a fan's favorites. These concerns rose from a climate of “cancel culture,” the emphasis on accountability from brands and public figures for past problematic remarks/actions. In “The Moral Risks of Fandom,” a question is posed surrounding how superfans should handle severe controversies surrounding their favorite pastimes. The writers discuss the ethics regarding supporting contributors of sports fandoms such as players and coaches, but this concept stretches across multiple disciplines. Fandoms are anchored in adoration from fans, and participating audiences of Sci-Fi narratives have likely encountered this issue at least once. Fandom seeps into personal identity, becoming a part of them similar to nationalist ideologies. When these coveted favorites are deemed problematic by society, fans feel an attack of their belief system, splitting reactions into two: a blind defense for something they consider a part of them, or completely step away from the fandom. A middle ground is proposed between these ideas: to be critical of the media consumed and understand when the right moment is to walk away. Morality in fandoms can be such a polarizing issue, snagging on the edges of what individual fans think is ethically correct against the level of change they believe they can illicit.
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