Bathroom Quote by Vanessa Grigoriadis
“Regarding punishment, we've learned from the downfall of Harvey Weinstein and other famous men not only that times have changed, but also that ostracism is an efficient tool. It reminds me of the tradition of bathroom lists of sexual assaulters at Brown beginning in 1990. Back then the administrators called the students who wrote them "magic marker terrorists" and threatened them with expulsion if caught. Now a Shitty Media Men list can dominate the news for days as HR departments across the coasts hastily assess their employees and their liability.”
About This Quote
Source Article: New York Magazine, “The Shitty Media Men List,” 2018
Public shaming can expose misconduct but also raises concerns about due process and collateral harm.
In simple terms: Exposing wrongdoing can be powerful yet risky.
Balance accountability with fairness.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- legal proceedings
- media reporting
- HR investigations
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards protect against misuse of public lists?
- How can institutions address misconduct responsibly?
Risk of false accusations and reputational damage.