Should social media companies be responsible for removing content on their platforms?
Currently social media networks such as Twitter and Facebook are not legally responsible for much of the content posted to their sites.
This protection was established by Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act of 1996. This law allows these companies to develop their own policies about what type of content is permitted and how content will be moderated.
Recently these networks have been criticized for allowing the spread of offensive content, illegal activity, fake news and scams.
Some members of Congress and presidential candidates have proposed changes to this law that would encourage more moderation of content on these platforms, while others have proposed limiting platforms’ ability to moderate content.
This deliberation explores this topic and has students analyze arguments relating freedom of speech, public safety and the role of the government in regulating business. Using this information students will answer the question: Should social media companies be responsible for removing content on their platforms?
