Understanding Section 230

Section 230 is a critical U.S. law that significantly impacts how online platforms operate. It contains two primary components: one that affirms a platform's right to choose what content to publish and another that grants immunity from liability for user-generated content. The latter aspect creates challenges, as it allows platforms to escape responsibility for harmful content, such as terrorist recruitment or incitements to violence. This exemption raises concerns about accountability, particularly when the platforms themselves may actively promote such harmful content through their algorithms.