Honestly with Bari Weiss Is Banning TikTok a Mistake? A Debate.
Apr 26, 2024
Geoffrey Cain, an expert on national security, argues that banning TikTok is crucial to counter authoritarian influence due to its data collection practices. Walter Kirn, a novelist and critic, warns that such a ban threatens user free speech and represents government overreach. They debate the balance between national security and civil liberties, explore the implications of TikTok's foreign ownership, and question whether the fears surrounding the app are genuine or merely a modern moral panic.
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Historical Precedent for Ownership Restrictions
- The US has a history of regulating foreign ownership in communications and infrastructure.
- This practice dates back to the founding fathers and includes laws like the Radio Act and Communications Act.
Unspecified Threats and Speech Restrictions
- Walter Kirn points out a lack of specific evidence of threats posed by TikTok, calling it a "deep, dark boogeyman."
- He questions the nature of the alleged algorithmic brainwashing and emphasizes the restriction of American speech.
China's Surveillance Systems
- Geoffrey Cain highlights China's extensive surveillance systems like Skynet and the IJOP.
- He questions why these practices aren't banned instead of focusing solely on TikTok.
