“Canceled” is a term assholes came up with to rebrand “consequences” to make it seem like something that isn’t their own fault.
Not sure I agree with this particular take. My recollection is that this usage of cancelled started in progressive internet spaces and was absolutely used to describe consequences for being an asshole.
It’s the exact same trajectory woke took – it was language used by left-leaning people that got co-opted and intentionally diluted by conservatives.
I think the difference in upbringing you’re describing is a huge part of it.
Millennials went through spending our entire early adult lives being gaslit about how all the ways we were being abused were ultimately somehow our fault because our parents refused to recognize the systemic issues we were facing.
We may have come to the realization late, but we can certainly make sure younger generations know that they can and should call bullshit when they see it.