Virtue signalling is the expression of a conspicuous, self-righteous moral viewpoint with the intent of communicating good character. It is often used to show others that one is a good person by expressing opinions that will be acceptable to them, especially on social media. The term can be seen as a form of empty boasting, where virtue is claimed through words or silently held beliefs, without the need for actual action.
- Virtue signalling can be a powerful force for social change, creating common knowledge around a moral issue that people would otherwise ignore.
- The effectiveness of virtue signalling in convincing others of ones virtue is not necessarily tied to the person's actual commitment to the cause.
- Some argue that virtue signalling is a negative behavior, suggesting that those who engage in it don't truly believe in the causes they publicly support and are acting out of bad faith.
- Examples of virtue signalling include temporarily changing your social media photo to support a cause, putting a political bumper sticker on your car, or a brand creating advertisements in support of a social cause.
