Social Media and Privacy

In the article "When Rape Goes Viral," many good points are brought forth regarding the effects of social media on rape victims. Although social media can be helpful in identifying perpetrators, is it truly helpful to the victims of these crimes? Not only have they been physically violated, but with the information about their situation being so public, they experience an emotional blow as well. This can make moving on from a traumatic experience much more difficult, along with prolonging their healing process. Is public humiliation an even trade off? Although social media can raise awareness about crimes like these, it is important to consider whether or not their presence on the web is numbing the people that are exposed to it? If videos of crime are posted, there must be a large number of people that do not report them. Is creating more and more bystanders helping the public or hurting it? Sure, we think that rape is horrible, and it is. It's disgraceful and disgusting, but what if its true nature is being covered up by booze and familiar faces? 

Also, for rape victims, I have to imagine that they would want this information to be at their own disclosure. By having it on the web, anyone who searches them could potentially have access to this information. Since much of the information can be pursued through the web, it takes away the option from the victims to come forth on their own. It's important to note that often times, rape can occur when people are not in the right state of mind or under the influence of some kind. Much like the story told in the article, the 16 year old girl did not remember being raped. If there were any repercussions of the sexual activity such as STDs or pregnancy, she would have absolutely no knowledge of it if it weren't for social media. 

Overall, I think that in some cases the web can be a helpful tool in gaining access to certain criminals, and can help spread awareness. However, is it worth putting the victim through emotional stress and humiliation? By creating more witnesses, is it helping the public or hurting it? The topic yields many discussions and questions. But think about the victims of these crimes. Is it worth it for them to be violated both emotionally and physically in a public forum? I can't be sure..