vice

Vice is a term that denotes immoral, unhealthy, or disapproved behavior or habits that fall short of virtue or accepted norms. In ethics and religion, vices describe actions or dispositions considered morally wrong or corrupt, such as gambling, drunkenness, or prostitution. The concept varies across cultures and historical periods, and it has been used to justify social regulation, moral critique, and criminal penalties. In everyday language, vice can also refer to a personal weakness or habit, as in a vice for sweets or procrastination, often expressed in the plural as vices.

In addition to its philosophical usage, Vice is the name of a multinational media company known for its distinctive youth-oriented approach to journalism and culture. Vice Media was founded in 1994 in Montreal, Canada, as a print magazine by Suroosh Alvi, Gavin McInnes, and Shane Smith. It expanded into video production, digital media, and global reporting, developing brands such as Vice News and Vice TV, and growing into a diversified media network that covers news, culture, and underreported topics. The company became known for immersive documentaries, investigative reporting, and culturally focused content aimed at younger audiences. In the 2020s, Vice faced financial challenges and underwent restructuring, but the Vice brand continues to operate across various platforms, maintaining its imprint in contemporary journalism and media production.