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Democracy Now! Audio

"Can't Look Away": New Documentary on Online Safety Examines the Dark Side of Social Media

Apr 4, 2025
Laura Marquez-Garrett, a lawyer with the Social Media Victims Law Center, and Matthew O’Neill, co-director of the documentary 'Can’t Look Away,' tackle the darker side of social media. They share disturbing revelations from whistleblowers about the tragic consequences faced by children due to corporate negligence. The conversation highlights issues like sextortion targeting vulnerable youth and the addictive nature of platforms that can lead to mental health risks. They stress the urgent need for reform and accountability in the tech industry.
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Quick takeaways

  • Big tech companies prioritize profit over the welfare of children, as highlighted by whistleblower testimonies revealing harmful algorithm effects.
  • Legislative efforts like the Kids Online Safety Act reflect increasing public concern for child safety online amid ongoing lobbying against accountability.

Deep dives

Big Tech's Influence and Children's Safety

The conversation emphasizes the significant role that big tech CEOs played during crucial political moments, particularly on Inauguration Day, reflecting their vested interests in legislative outcomes affecting social media. The Kids Online Safety Act, which received overwhelming bipartisan support, highlights a growing concern for child safety online, but many tech leaders continue to engage in lobbying efforts to maintain the status quo. With Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act continuing to shield these corporations from accountability, the responsibility for protecting children falls short. This regulatory gap has allowed social media platforms to prioritize profit over the welfare of vulnerable users, particularly young people.

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