Easter, Australian cricket, politics and the art of public shaming

If we've become adept at anything in the internet age, it's the art of public shaming.

There's a process to it; a choreography, even. Twitter and other virtual town squares get wind of the newest outrage. The rumblings begin; the outrage escalates.

Whoever's in the crosshairs activates damage control mode. An apology is issued, usually followed by a more abject one. But usually, a ritual sacrifice must be made, the public anger propitiated; heads must roll.

Final phase: the public subsides, or abruptly loses interest. We are satisfied — perhaps a little queasy. Do we believe in second chances? In redemption? Did things get slightly out of hand? Who is the monster here?