Mock Trial: Murthy v. Missouri - Free Speech, Government and Misinformation on Social Media Platforms (John Donvan; Open to Debate podcast)

The Supreme Court is taking up a case that could affect how you read about issues during a crucial election year. Government officials concerned about misinformation related to topics such as COVID and election integrity had requested that social media platforms take down some posts. Several plaintiffs then filed a lawsuit alleging that by doing so, the government was suppressing speech and certain viewpoints. 

Now, there’s a question of whether such government actions amount to coercion or are legitimate exercises of power. Those who argue coercion believe that government requests limit free speech, claim “misinformation” is subjective, and worry that increased content moderation could lead to authoritarian control over public discourse online. 

Those who argue legitimate cooperation say that platforms often voluntarily comply with these requests as part of their anti-misinformation policies, making it a collaborative effort for public benefit. They also note that in cases where misinformation threatens public health or safety, such as false information about vaccines, government intervention is justified to protect the public.

Now in this mock trial, we take this question on the free speech, government, and misinformation on social media platforms.

Interview: 

https://opentodebate.org/debate/mock-trial-murthy-v-missouri-free-speech-government-and-misinformation-on-social-media-platforms/