The Scarlet Letter: How do we know what is right and what is wrong?

First, you must research public shame as used today.  You can look at examples of judicial rulings in which public shaming is used as punishment.  You can find articles offering opinions on whether or not those punishments are fitting.  You can even look at the recently popular dog-shaming movement and its associated research on the emotional reactions of dogs.  I have provided some sources you can consider.  My list is far from definitive so you have plenty of opportunity for your own research.

Second, you must write your own answer to the question: Is public shame an appropriate punishment?  This can be a short paragraph in which you state your position and describe as well as cite at least one source from your research.  You must provide two things: 1) a sample situation; 2) commentary from an article writer and/or deciding judge.  You may create a situation or use one from your research.

Third, create a dialogue with your peers.  After posting your answer, you must find a position that contradicts your own (i.e. if you said shame works in some situations, find a post that says shame is a bad punishment and vice versa).  Respond to their post offering 1) that you disagree; 2) why you disagree, citing your research.  Continue this dialogue until you reach a nuanced, collaborative decision on the circumstances that could make shame appropriate or inappropriate for this situation.

Fourth, find someone who agrees with you on whether or not public shame is a good punishment.  Now argue against that claim.  Cite research that supports your new claim.

Above all, keep conversations on the class blog respectful to both your peers and their opinions.