Twitter workers to Musk: Slow down there, boy

There is no dispute over that fact. Private entities have the right to set different standards on censorship. What is not being discussed is the apparent action by Government to censor via private entities. It’s clear that there were attempts by Govt agencies, by proxy, to force twitter and other platforms to censor both individuals and news outlets.

Musk seems to recognize that danger and is attempting to create a digital version of the public square. He has said publicly that goal is to have a platform where any censorship, as much as possible, mirrors the laws of the land regarding free speech and free expression. In other words, applying the standard held to limiting Govt censorship of speech to a private forum. Whether he follows through on that is another question.

In the US, there are few if any traditional news outlets where citizens are getting truly objective information. The current levels of public mistrust of the standard bearers for news is a clear indication. It creates a vacuum and an opportunity for X to become a source of objective news and also a free exchange of opinions and ideas.

If Musk follows through on his promise, it provides an important outlet for the exchange of ideas, which is critical to the proper functioning of a free and open society. Like I said, if that happens, it may end up being his greatest contribution.

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