In their beginnings, the Internet and social networks were understood as a panacea for social development, how “connect us all” was going to turn us into a better global society and it was going to give us a powerful springboard in our evolution.
According to the criteria of
Decades later we have discovered, with deep pain, that the interests of large corporations that control the opinion and information of the large network have turned it into, almost, an enemy of union and social consolidation: quite the opposite.
Polarization, hate, misinformation and manipulation are the structural bases today of an internet and social networks that center the world in a growing debate: How to regulate the internet and its harmful effects?
Bill Gates dedicated an entire chapter to this topic in his most recent Netflix series, ‘‘Now what?’ Disinformation is the worst poison of digital globalization.
Germany implemented internet content regulation in 2018 that forces, under penalty of violent fines and sanctions, to Google, Facebook and Twitter to remove manipulated, false and insulting content in less than 24 hours, a measure that has worked, but which still raises concerns that it comes close to freedom of expression.
Now the entire Union is preparing to discuss a new regulatory framework that aims confront and contain disinformation across Europe, also forcing digital platforms not to undermine the right to freedom of expression.
The known framework includes verification mechanisms news, labels that warn when content is of dubious origin and forceful actions of deletion and blocking of information demonstrably false and/or manipulated.
And this responsibility is imposed on digital platforms. This includes a commitment that the internet giants have always avoided, ltransparency about their algorithms and that citizens and society understand how they operate.
What a discussion. Necessary, of course. A path that will surely trace a path along which, without a doubt, we will have to analyze and follow, depending on how it turns out.
Either that, or continue leaving them with impunity the ‘responsibility’ of building culture and social fabric to digital industries that do not see social and anthropological implications in their actionsjust numbers.
JOSÉ CARLOS GARCÍA R.
Editor Multimedia
@JoseCarlosTecno on networks
**Dr. Carter argues that disinformation threatens social cohesion by ___. How does this connect to the concept of the digital divide?**
## World Today News: The Digital Divide – Interview
**Welcome to World Today News. Today’s discussion centers on the thought-provoking article “An Enemy of Union?” examining the complex relationship between the internet, social media, and societal impact.**
**Joining us today are two esteemed experts:**
* **Dr. Emily Carter, a sociologist specializing in the impact of technology on social behavior.**
* **Mr. David Lee, a technology lawyer with a focus on digital regulation and freedom of speech.**
**Introduction**
**Host:** The article highlights a stark contrast between the initial utopian vision of the internet and the current reality of widespread online polarization, misinformation, and manipulation. Dr. Carter, what are your thoughts on this shift?
**Dr. Carter:** I think the initial optimism about the internet was understandable. The potential for connection and information sharing was undeniably exciting. However, like many technological advancements, its impact is multifaceted and complex. We need to acknowledge the unintended consequences alongside the benefits.
**Host:** Indeed. Mr. Lee, from a legal standpoint, how do we balance the ideals of free speech with the need to address harmful content online?
**Mr. Lee:** This is the million-dollar question! The internet has become a global public square, and navigating the line between protecting free discourse and preventing harm is incredibly challenging.
**Section 1: The Rise of Disinformation**
**Host:** The article emphasizes “disinformation” as a particularly dangerous byproduct of the digital age. Dr. Carter, how does disinformation threaten social cohesion?
**Dr. Carter:** Disinformation erodes trust, not just in institutions but in each other. It amplifies existing social divisions and creates echo chambers where people are only exposed to information that confirms their existing biases. This makes constructive dialogue and problem-solving incredibly difficult.
**Host:** Mr. Lee, some argue that attempts to regulate online content violate freedom of speech. How do you respond to these concerns?
**Mr. Lee:** It’s a legitimate concern. We need to be careful not to stifle legitimate dissent or create a chilling effect on free expression. However, freedom of speech is not absolute. There are already laws against libel, slander, and incitement to violence. Applying these principles to online spaces is complex but necessary.
**Section 2: Regulation vs. Self-Regulation**
**Host:** The article mentions Germany’s approach to internet regulation, imposing fines on platforms that fail to remove harmful content quickly. Dr. Carter, how effective is this type of regulation, and are there potential downsides?
**Dr. Carter:** Germany’s law has definitely had some success in curbing certain types of harmful content. However, there are concerns about over-censorship and the potential for powerful actors to influence what is deemed “harmful.” Striking a balance is crucial.
**Host:** Mr. Lee, what role should tech companies play in addressing these issues? Should they be held responsible for the content their users generate?
**Mr. Lee:** Tech companies have a responsibility to mitigate harm on their platforms, but they shouldn’t be treated as publishers. They need to be transparent about their algorithms, invest in content moderation, and cooperate with governments and researchers to develop effective solutions.
**Section 3: The Future of the Internet**
**Host:** As we move forward, how can we ensure that the internet becomes a force for good rather than a source of division?
**Dr. Carter:** We need a multi-pronged approach: improving media literacy, promoting critical thinking skills, fostering ethical leadership in the tech industry, and encouraging open dialogue about the impact of technology on our lives.
**Host:** Mr. Lee, what legal and regulatory frameworks are needed to navigate these challenges?
**Mr. Lee:**
We need a global conversation about internet governance. This involves international cooperation, collaboration between governments, tech companies, and civil society, and a commitment to uphold fundamental human rights online.
**Conclusion**
**Host:** Thank you both for sharing your insights. It’s clear that navigating the complex relationship between the internet and society requires careful consideration and ongoing dialogue.
