No Amount of Influence Raises Somebody Above Ethical Standards

TL:DR; Being world-famous doesn’t permit you to break ethical boundaries. Separating the art from the artist can be, and usually is, a damaging practice that causes fans to rationalize harmful behaviors so they can keep enjoying certain content. But, you cannot ignore the problem without becoming part of the problem, and group accountability is more important to the artist and the fans than the art itself is.

The concept of separating the art from the artist is a nuanced and often necessary approach to engaging with creative works, particularly when the artist’s personal actions or beliefs are problematic. 

Art, in its purest form, can transcend its creator, resonating with audiences in ways that are deeply personal and subjective. It is possible to appreciate a painting, a song, or a film while still condemning the behavior of the artist who created it. However, this forced separation becomes dangerous when it is used as an excuse to avoid holding influential figures accountable for their actions, or to avoid personal scrutiny for partaking in the content of a person who does or says harmful things. Accountability, particularly group accountability, is essential in ensuring that power is not abused and that harmful behaviors do not proliferate unchecked.

When individuals with significant platforms—whether they are artists, celebrities, or public figures - engage in dangerous or harmful behavior, their influence have far-reaching consequences. Their actions are often amplified by their fame, and their followers may inadvertently or intentionally emulate their behavior. This creates a ripple effect that extends beyond the individual, impacting their fandom and, ultimately, society at large. 

As a common example, when a popular musician promotes harmful ideologies or engages in abusive behavior, their fans commonly rationalize - or even adopt -  these actions, which normalizes toxicity in the process. This is why group accountability is crucial: it is not enough to simply enjoy someone’s work; we must also critically evaluate their impact on the world and hold them responsible when they cause harm. The experience of art travels in two directions at once: through both the creator and the consumer, and these groups communicate to each other through the medium that connects them. To the consumer the message can be anything, but the message sent back to the creator has strictor limitations, most often only being concerned with the artist or the art itself. But the consumer can use this channel to communicate to the creator a message of accountability; Those who have a platform of influence must be held to an ethical standard that will protect the consumers.

Simply put, group accountability is more important than allegiance to a fandom. It prioritizes the collective well-being over individual admiration. Fandoms often foster a sense of community and belonging, which can make it difficult to divest from an artist whose work has been meaningful to us. However, when we prioritize fandom over accountability, we risk enabling harmful behavior and perpetuating a culture of impunity. This is especially dangerous when the artist in question wields significant influence. By holding them accountable, we send a clear message that no one is above ethical standards, regardless of their talent or popularity. You cannot act in ways that threaten the consumers of your content.

The consequences of failing to hold influential figures accountable can be profound. Unchecked behavior can spread through fandoms, creating echo chambers where harmful actions are excused or even celebrated. This normalization spills over into the real world, influencing societal attitudes and behaviors. If a celebrity consistently engages in transphobic behavior and their fans defend them, it can contribute to a culture that tolerates or dismisses  transphobie (*cough cough* Harry Potter and J.K. Rowling *cough cough*). Group accountability acts as a safeguard against this, ensuring that harmful behaviors are challenged rather than reinforced.

While it is possible to separate the art from the artist, it is not possible to separate the artist from their influence. Holding people with power accountable for their actions is not just a moral imperative; it is a necessary step in protecting society from the spread of harmful beliefs and behaviors. Group accountability requires us to look beyond our personal attachments and prioritize the greater good. It may be difficult to divest from an artist we admire, but it is far more important to ensure that those with platforms are held to ethical standards. By doing so, we can create a culture that values responsibility over idolization and fosters a safer, more equitable world for everyone.

So yeah, people should stop defending Kanye West.