Part 5/7:
He emphasizes that there are two opposing forces in this development: one side promotes freedom and the open exchange of ideas; the other veers toward tyranny, suppressing dissent under rigid definitions of what constitutes offensive or hateful speech. The practices of tech giants in Silicon Valley indicate a troubling trend towards censorship, exemplifying a preference for authoritarian measures over open dialogue.
The Threat to Free Expression
Drawing from specific examples, Smith points out how companies like Google, Twitter, and now Amazon are increasingly exercising power over discourse. There is a discernible lack of empathy and understanding of perspectives from the other side of political or ideological debates, as evidenced by reactions to events like the recent U.S. elections.