LUSAKA – Award-winning Zambian singer Wezi has sparked an important conversation about the growing culture of online hostility, warning that social media comment sections are increasingly damaging people’s mental health and discouraging honest expression.
In a heartfelt post shared on her social media platforms, the musician described comment sections as “one of the greatest psychological experiments in human history,” saying they have the power to transform both those who attack others online and those who become targets.
“Silence Is Safer Than Honesty”
Wezi reflected on how many people now choose to remain silent online for fear of being criticised or publicly shamed.
According to the singer, today’s internet culture often values belonging to the majority more than allowing people to express honest opinions.
“The comment section has become one of the greatest psychological experiments in human history. It has the power to turn both the troll and the trolled into monsters. More dangerously, it can convince thoughtful people that silence is safer than honesty.”
She observed that once someone’s opinion differs from the popular view, they can quickly become the target of harsh criticism regardless of whether they are right or wrong.
Concern Over Mental Health
Wezi also highlighted the emotional impact that online attacks can have on individuals.
She noted that many people gradually withdraw from social media after repeated criticism, often without others realising the emotional battles they may be facing.
“We watch people move from expressive, to hesitant, to silent, until one day they are simply gone.”
The singer suggested that behind every social media profile is a real person who may already be dealing with personal struggles, making public humiliation even more harmful.
“Correction Without Compassion”
In her message, Wezi questioned the growing trend of correcting people through insults and public ridicule rather than empathy and understanding.
She argued that genuine learning happens through compassion, not humiliation.
“Correction without compassion is rarely a pursuit of truth; it is often a performance for an audience.”
According to the musician, online cruelty has become entertainment for many users, while public shaming is increasingly replacing meaningful dialogue.
Humans Were Not Built for Constant Judgment
Wezi further pointed out that human beings were never designed to face the opinions of thousands of strangers every day.
She suggested that constant exposure to criticism and outrage may be contributing to rising levels of anxiety, emotional exhaustion, and fear among social media users.
“Human beings did not evolve to absorb the judgment of thousands of strangers in a single afternoon.”
Choosing Peace Over Online Arguments
The singer concluded her message by encouraging people to step away from social media whenever it begins to affect their mental wellbeing.
Rather than becoming consumed by endless online debates, she urged followers to prioritise their peace of mind.
“Sometimes the wisest thing you can do is leave the noise behind for a while… your peace is worth more than winning an argument and your humanity is worth more than the approval of a crowd.”
Fans Praise Wezi’s Message
The post quickly attracted attention from fans, with many agreeing that social media has become increasingly hostile and that people need to be more mindful of the impact their words can have on others.
Mental health advocates have long warned that excessive exposure to online harassment, cyberbullying, and public shaming can contribute to stress, anxiety, depression, and social isolation, particularly among young people.
Wezi’s remarks have added another influential voice to the growing conversation about creating healthier and more respectful online spaces, reminding users that kindness and empathy remain just as important in the digital world as they are offline.