ARTS / CULTURE & LEISURE
Maintaining integrity great responsibility for influencers
Published: May 23, 2023 10:12 PM
Illustration: Hang Dachuan/Global Times

Illustration: Hang Dachuan/Global Times



 The rise of influencers has transformed the way we consume content and engage with social media platforms. These individuals, often known as online celebrities, wield significant influence over their followers, shaping opinions and trends with a single post or video. However, with great power comes great responsibility, and it is imperative that we establish a code of ethics to guide these online personalities.

The recent case involving online influencer Xiaohuijun and her false allegations against a multi-channel network company highlights the need for online celebrities to adhere to legal and ethical standards. 

The influencer, with 13 million online followers, accused the company's CEO Sun Haoyu of sexual harassment and forcing her to sign a contract, prompting widespread attention and controversy. 

This case serves as a stark reminder that we must differentiate between legitimate claims and baseless accusations. Upholding the principles of lawfulness, responsible speech and ethical behavior should be the fundamental requirements for anyone publishing contents on the internet. 

Freedom of speech is essential, but it must be exercised responsibly, with consideration for the potential consequences of one's words and actions.

The role of influencers in shaping public opinion cannot be underestimated. 

Their vast followings and ability to sway trends and opinions have led to their exploitation by different online groups and communities. It is crucial to guard against the misuse of their influence and the manipulation of public discourse. Influencers should not allow themselves to be entangled in misinformation or become pawns in the hands of those with ulterior motives.

Compliance with laws and responsible speech should be the basic minimum standard. Influencers must recognize their role as influencers and understand the impact their words and actions can have on their followers. By becoming influencers, they have a responsibility to ensure that the information they share is accurate, verified, and aligned with legal and ethical standards. Only in doing so can they help create a healthier online environment built on trust, reliability, and transparency.

To prevent the proliferation of fake news and the spread of harmful rumors, it is essential for online influencers to verify the accuracy of the information they share before disseminating it to their audience. Fact-checking and critical thinking should become an integral part of their content creation process. By adhering to these principles, they can play a pivotal role in countering the spread of misinformation and promoting a culture of truthfulness and integrity.

Furthermore, influencers should be cautious about becoming involved in controversies without fully understanding the underlying facts and complexities of the situation. They should exercise restraint in making public statements or taking sides until all the relevant information has been thoroughly examined and verified. Premature judgments can lead to the perpetuation of falsehoods, further polarize public opinion, and damage their own reputation in the long run.

The abuse of influencer status and manipulation of public opinion should be strongly condemned. Internet influencers should resist the temptation to exploit their fame and influence for personal gain. Instead, they should use their platforms to foster meaningful discussions, raise awareness about important social issues, and inspire positive change. By doing so, they can set an example for their followers and contribute to the overall betterment of society.

The case of Xiaohuijun and the ensuing controversies emphasize the importance of upholding integrity and ethical conduct on influencers. Compliance with laws and responsible speech should be the fundamental principle on the internet. It is crucial for them to use their platforms responsibly, ensuring the accuracy and veracity of the information they share. By maintaining high ethical standards and resisting the misuse of their status, they can contribute to a more trustworthy and responsible online community.