The Shame MachineBy: Cathy O'Neil A TIMES BOOK OF THE YEAR Shame is being weaponized by governments and corporations to attack the most vulnerable. It's time to fight back Shame is a powerful and sometimes useful tool. When we publicly shame corrupt politicians, abusive celebrities, or predatory corporations, we reinforce values of fairness and justice. But as best selling author Cathy O'Neil argues in this revelatory book, shaming has taken a new and dangerous turn.