Social Media and Politics Content Moderation and the Politics of Social Media Platforms, with Dr. Tarleton Gillespie
Feb 16, 2020
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The Invisibility of Intermediaries
- Early internet researchers sought to understand the power of digital intermediaries like Google and YouTube.
- They noticed these companies strategically used the term "platform" to minimize their perceived role in shaping online content.
The Dual Nature of Platforms
- Social media companies use "platform" to present a dual image: a neutral space for users and a powerful tool for advertisers.
- This allows them to appeal to both groups while deflecting responsibility for content.
YouTube's Growth
- In 2010, Google bought YouTube for $1.65 billion.
- YouTube now generates about ten times that in ad revenue annually, showing the growth of the platform.