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Custodians of the Internet
304 pages, 2018
“Fake news” and live-streamed violence on social media platforms have ignited a debate about how to police user‑posted content.
The tools used to curtail trolling, ban hate speech, and censor pornography can also silence the speech we need to hear. In this revealing investigation, award‑winning sociologist Tarleton Gillespie provides an overview of current social media practices and explains the underlying rationales for how, when, and why these policies are enforced.
In 'Custodians of the Internet', Tarleton Gillespie explores the immense power that online platforms like Facebook and YouTube hold. They're not just neutral spaces for sharing content, but active participants in shaping public discourse. This book will make you see these platforms in a new light.
Gillespie digs into the role of algorithms in moderating online content. He shows how these seemingly impartial tools can actually reinforce biases and inequalities. It's a fascinating look into the hidden workings of the internet.
One key point that Gillespie makes is that tech companies have a responsibility to manage their platforms in a way that benefits society. He argues that they can't just hide behind the guise of being 'just a platform'. This book will make you think about the role of tech companies in our lives.
Gillespie also explores the impact of online platforms on democracy. He shows how the spread of misinformation and hate speech can undermine democratic processes. If you're interested in the intersection of technology and politics, you should definitely check out this book.
Finally, Gillespie argues for more transparency from tech companies. He believes that we need to know more about how they moderate content and how their algorithms work. This book will make you see the importance of transparency in the digital age.
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Custodians of the Internet is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the hidden dynamics of our online world. Gillespie's work is a beacon of insight in an often misunderstood landscape.
Zeynep Tufekci - Sociologist, WriterGillespie's book is a powerful exploration of the unseen mechanisms that shape the Internet. It's a critical read for those who care about the future of digital spaces.
danah boyd - Technology ScholarCustodians of the Internet is a compelling and insightful examination of the invisible forces shaping our online experiences. Gillespie's work is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the Internet's complex ecosystem.
Ethan Zuckerman - Internet ActivistGillespie's book is a profound exploration of the hidden dynamics that shape our digital lives. It's an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the Internet.
Kate Crawford - AI ResearcherCustodians of the Internet is a critical examination of the invisible forces that shape our online world. Gillespie's work is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of the digital landscape.
Safiya Umoja Noble - Academic, Author