Should misinformation be regulated?
The question should focus on definition more than regulation.
Misinformation, disinformation, and free speech have become prominent terms in our lexicon, sparking intense debates. Ironically, Western democracies are now proposing measures to formally address misinformation, disinformation, and the related challenges to free speech.
Should mis-information be regulated? I look at both sides of the argument, to arrive at a conclusion.
Definitions
So that we are on the same page, let’s start with definitions. As per Encyclopaedia Britannica:
- Misinformation is the inadvertent spread of false information
- Disinformation is false information designed to mislead or confuse.
The related concept of freedom of speech, is a part and parcel of right to “freedom of expression” as guaranteed by a constitution or equivalent.
The fact that I had to start with definitions shows how nebulous these topics can be. While the difference in these two is intent, the operative term is identical across both: false.
How do we define false? More importantly, who defines what is false? As Elon Musk says: who is the arbiter? This is a key central issue.
