Virtue signalling

Virtue signalling is a phrase claimed to originate from journalist James Bartholomew of The Spectator. It describes attempts to assert moral superiority via shallow, public displays of one's "virtue" and good character.

By expressing opinion or sentiments that you are good, that your behavior is noble, others should be viewed as racist, not open-minded and likely phobic. The phrase demonstrates a need to project feelings and receive praise from others. Its use boosts one's ego, gleaming with pride, to show that you should be just like me.

In biblical comparison, in the parable of the Pharisee and the publican, the Pharisee ostentatiously prays, "God, I thank thee that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican." Jesus approves instead of the humble prayer of the publican: "God be merciful to me a sinner."