In 'Custodians of the Internet,' Tarleton Gillespie unravels the complex roles played by content moderators and algorithm architects in shaping our online experiences. He delves into the ethical dilemmas and societal implications of their decisions, illustrating how these unseen gatekeepers influence what we see—and what we don’t. With a keen eye for the intersection of technology, policy, and culture, Gillespie challenges readers to reconsider the nuances of censorship and freedom of expression in the digital age. Engaging anecdotes and critical analysis provide insight into the blurred lines between safety, privacy, and expression online. Prepare to question who truly controls the narrative on the internet and at what cost.
By Tarleton Gillespie
Published: 2018
"In a world where every click and swipe shapes our reality, the true custodians of the Internet are not just its architects but the unseen hands that decide what we see and what remains hidden."
"Most users want their Twitter feed, Facebook page, and YouTube comments to be free of harassment and porn. Whether faced with 'fake news' or livestreamed violence, 'content moderators'--who censor or promote user-posted content--have never been more important. This is especially true when the tools that social media platforms use to curb trolling, ban hate speech, and censor pornography can also silence the speech you need to hear. [The author] provides an overview of current social media practices and explains the underlying rationales for how, when, and why these policies are enforced. In doing so, [the author] highlights that content moderation receives too little public scrutiny even as it is shapes social norms and creates consequences for public discourse, cultural production, and the fabric of society. Based on interviews with content moderators, creators, and consumers, this ... book is ... for anyone who's ever clicked 'like' or 'retweet.'"--
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“In a world where every click and swipe shapes our reality, the true custodians of the Internet are not just its architects but the unseen hands that decide what we see and what remains hidden.”
Custodians of the Internet
By Tarleton Gillespie
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Tarleton Gillespie is a notable scholar and author specializing in the socio-cultural implications of digital media and communication. He is known for his insightful works such as "Wikimedia's Editing and Reading Activities" and "Custodians of the Internet: Platforms, Content Moderation, and the Hidden Decisions That Shape Social Media." Gillespie’s writing often explores the intersections of technology, governance, and the impact of platforms on public discourse. With a focus on the complexities of content moderation and the implications of algorithm-driven systems, his work reflects a critical understanding of the power dynamics within digital platforms.
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