How Free is Our Speech in the Context of Digital Communication?
We may have some freedoms of expression, but we must remember that online we are held to the standards and rules of private corporations.
The concept of free speech takes on a complex and evolving meaning in a world governed by Big Tech, as these corporations have increasingly become the primary platforms for public discourse. Traditionally, free speech has been understood as protection from government censorship. However, when communication happens largely on privately owned platforms, the boundaries of what can and cannot be said are shaped not by governments but by the policies of companies like Facebook (Meta), Google, Twitter (X), and YouTube.
Big Tech platforms are private entities, so they have the legal right to regulate content according to their terms of service. This includes moderating or removing content they find objectionable or against their policies. While this isn’t state censorship, it does mean that these companies have immense power to shape what can be expressed or consumed by the public.
Free speech is not just about the right to speak but also the right to be heard. On Big Tech platforms, algorithms decide what content is prioritized or made visible. While these algorithms are ostensibly neutral, they are often designed to maximize engagement, leading to the…
