In a New York Times column on July 23rd, 2025, “Coldplay And the Dignity Of Shame,” the author expressed relief watching the Coldplay Kiss Cam video, stating that she felt satisfied to see people finally feel appropriately ashamed that they did something wrong and not pretend otherwise.
While it’s true that covering your face and wanting to disappear can be a sign of shame, in this case, that may be wishful thinking.
In fact, the actions of the CEO and HR officer seem to suggest otherwise. The two of them made the bold decision to go to a concert with 50,000 people, and then indulge in publicly embracing one another. When they realized they were on camera, they instinctively ducked for cover and tried to hide – not because they felt bad – but to continue to try to get away with it and avoid facing consequences.
Compartmentalizing, fantasy, and secrecy enable people to have affairs and lead a double life. These psychological accomplices allow people to act out daringly and be self-destructive with the illusion of impunity, in fact avoiding shame, until the two worlds clearly collide.
When Does Repentance Fail to Lead to Improved Behavior?