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Democratic costs: erosion of institutions and civic trust
When political controversies are settled by viral images, institutions designed to adjudicate disputes lose authority. If the public expects a quick visual verdict rather than a careful judicial or administrative process, trust in courts, oversight committees, and due-process norms erodes. Worse, image-led campaigns for punishment can produce chilling effects: officials who fear instantaneous online retribution may avoid bold decision-making, and marginalized groups may be further alienated from civic life.