Study: Violent Threats Against Politicians Surged on Facebook After Meta Relaxed Speech Rules
By
David Gilbert
Crackling crust, pillowy middle. The kind of bagel that earns a second cup of coffee.
Summary
New research from the Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH) reveals that after Meta relaxed its content moderation rules in the name of free speech, violent threats against politicians—including President Donald Trump—surged on Facebook. The study found a significant increase in threats directed at lawmakers in the six months following Meta's policy overhaul, which was justified by the company's claim that it had been over-enforcing rules and limiting legitimate political debate. The research raises concerns about the consequences of reduced content moderation on political discourse and safety.
Key quotes
· 2 pulledWe have been over-enforcing our rules, limiting legitimate political debate and censoring too much trivial content and subjecting too many people to frustrating enforcement actions.
New research from the Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH) shows the...
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