The Monopoly Report
Episode 20: Eric Goldman on Section 230
Mar 5, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Eric Goldman, Associate Dean and law professor at Santa Clara University, shares his insights on the vital Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act. He explains its groundbreaking role in shaping the internet and digital advertising landscape. Goldman discusses current challenges facing Section 230, potential pitfalls of its repeal, and the ongoing evolution of content moderation. The conversation also touches on the dark side of social media trends, emphasizing the responsibility of platforms in safeguarding user safety.
35:50
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Section 230 has been crucial in shaping the consumer internet by minimizing liability for platforms, fostering user-generated content and innovation.
- Recent challenges to Section 230 from political factions threaten its future, raising concerns about the potential return to restrictive internet models.
Deep dives
Understanding Section 230 and Its Purpose
Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, enacted in 1996, states that websites are not liable for third-party content. This means that the responsibility for the content posted online falls on the users rather than the platforms facilitating it. The rationale behind this law is to avoid the 'moderator's dilemma,' where platforms might either excessively moderate content to avoid liability or completely refrain from moderation, leading to a flood of harmful material. Ultimately, Section 230 aims to empower platforms to allow open conversation without bearing the legal risks that would stifle user-generated content.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
