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Freedom of Expression and Alternatives for Internet Governance: Prospects and Pitfalls
[journal article]
Abstract This article dives into the ongoing debate on how to address concerns of personal safety and respect online, as well as consequences for exposure to polarizing and in various ways harmful information, while at the same time safeguarding the democratic essentials of freedom of expression and particip... view more
This article dives into the ongoing debate on how to address concerns of personal safety and respect online, as well as consequences for exposure to polarizing and in various ways harmful information, while at the same time safeguarding the democratic essentials of freedom of expression and participation. It does so by examining the issue from a less common angle, namely who governs the Internet and the platforms where much of the toxic material appears. By applying a model of free speech regulation conceptualized by legal scholar Jack Balkin (2018a, 2018b), the article explores different theoretical future scenarios of Internet governance involving three main players, namely governments, private companies, and speakers. The analysis finds that depending on which player is at the forefront, the outcomes from the standpoint of participation and freedom of speech may be drastically different. While there is potential for transformation that can enable more ownership, transparency, and agency for citizens and news media, some potential paths will place ever-increasing control over the interests of users.... view less
Keywords
Internet; governance; freedom of opinion; social media; false report; freedom of information
Classification
Interactive, electronic Media
Free Keywords
decentralization; freedom of expression; social media platforms; walled garden
Document language
English
Publication Year
2020
Page/Pages
p. 110-120
Journal
Media and Communication, 8 (2020) 4
Issue topic
Freedom of Expression, Democratic Discourse and the Social Media
ISSN
2183-2439
Status
Published Version; peer reviewed