Cancel culture is a contemporary phrase used to refer to a culture in which those who are deemed to have acted or spoken in an unacceptable manner are ostracized, boycotted, or shunned. The term "cancel culture" is said to have originated from a relatively obscure slang term – "cancel," referring to breaking up with someone – used in a 1980s song. This term was then referenced in film and television and later evolved and gained traction on social media. Cancel culture is a deeply contested idea in the nations political discourse, and there are debates over what it is and what it means, including whether its a way to hold people accountable or a tactic to punish others unjustly, or a mix of both. Cancel culture is supported as a tool to stop offensive and harmful behavior, while others find it problematic and toxic. Some argue that cancel culture does have its benefits, such as allowing less powerful people to have a voice, helps marginalized people hold others accountable when the justice system does not work, and cancelling is a tool to bring about social change. A poll of American registered voters conducted by Morning Consult in July 2020 showed that cancel culture, defined as "the practice of withdrawing support for (or canceling) public figures and companies after they have done or said something considered objectionable or offensive", was common.