[Matt Q]

John,

Virtue signalling is "the conspicuous expression of moral values done primarily with the intent of enhancing standing within a social group". It's a phrase that has come to be increasingly used by some on the right when anyone raises any ethical concern about anything. It's saying, "you're just saying that to make yourself look like a good person". It's an ad hominem argument par excellence. It's a great way to avoid any sort of discussion of the ethics of anything whilst casting aspersions on another's character.

Matt