Algorithms, microcontent, and the vanishing distinction between platforms and creators

EVER SINCE SOCIAL activity on the Internet began migrating from the wilds of the open Web to the walled gardens erected by so-called platforms (think Myspace, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, or TikTok), debates have raged about the responsibilities these platforms ought to bear. And yet, despite intense scrutiny from the news media and grassroots movements of outraged users, platforms continue to operate, from a legal standpoint, on the friendliest terms. You might say today's platforms enjoy a have your cake, eat it too, and here's a side of ice cream deal. They simultaneously benefit from: broad discretion to organize (and censor) content however they choose; powerful algorithms for curating a practically limitless supply of user-posted microcontent according to whatever ends they wish; and absolution from almost any liability associated with that content.

Automated summary

Social platforms have broad discretion and powerful algorithms to curate user content, while absolving themselves of almost all liability associated with that content.