Accountability

The Problem

Large social media platforms have amassed unprecedented power over the flow of information and political discourse, assuming the role of gatekeepers of our public square. Over the years, their business models and algorithms — designed to maximize attention, engagement, and outrage — have degraded the quality of information online while boosting disinformation, lies, and propaganda.

Digital and social media platforms face little regulatory scrutiny and have limited incentives to stop the spread of harmful content. Efforts at “self-regulation” fall short of what’s needed and frequently lack enforcement. In addition, large technology companies abuse their market power to remove meaningful alternatives for consumers.

The end result is a social media landscape that divides us into echo chambers and rewards inflammatory content, while our democracy suffers.