The internet has several platforms that allow any individual to post their creativity or insight, thus contributing to mass media. With this power comes responsibility, but unfortunately, what is shared on the Internet may not always be the most appropriate. On Dec. 31, viewers witnessed the insensitive post made by Logan Paul in regards to his trip to Japan.
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Logan Paul rose to fame as a Viner who shared comedic clips before moving on to be a Youtuber. He created the channel, TheOfficialLoganPaul, on which he now posts daily vlogs. The Youtuber recently went on an excursion to Japan to visit the forest Aokigahara, known to be a spot where many people commit suicide. On the last day of 2017, Logan Paul uploaded a vlog of his visit to the Aokigahara forest, capturing a victim of suicide hanging on a tree. People were horrified at the graphic and heart-wrenching footage. Since then, Logan Paul has been taken off the Google Preferred program, an advertising network for Youtube channels, and his roles in upcoming films and series have been put on hold. In addition to the repercussions of his video, Logan Paul has apologized for putting viewers in emotional distress due to his irresponsible actions.
These statements of apology on the behalf of Logan Paul do not validate the actions of this public figure who influences an audience of millions. Suicide is not a subject to be taken lightly, as it is often a result of serious mental illness and should be handled with proper awareness and understanding. In my opinion, if Logan Paul did not want to upset viewers he would not have entered the forest infamously known for being a location in which many people have taken their lives. The fact of the matter is, before uploading any piece of media to any platform, think about it. Therefore, if he is a respectful, thoughtful, influencer he would not have decided to post this footage for the masses to see.