Assignment task: Please help me write a few paragraphs for the post of my classmates
In responding to your peers' posts, discuss how the online assessment of content changes culturally and globally. What factors specifically influence the online assessment of content changes? Provide examples to support your thinking. Need Assignment Help?
Please provide references and in text citations
Nick Wrote
The question of internet censorship is complicated, involving a balance between protecting individuals from harmful content and upholding freedom of expression. In light of this, different countries approach this balance in varied ways, influenced by cultural, political, and legal factors. Internet content should only be censored in specific circumstances to protect individuals and society from harm. For instance, content promoting terrorism, child exploitation, or inciting violence should be removed in order to maintain public safety and order. In countries like the UK and U.S.A there have been different acts introduced to censors materials for at risk groups for the lack of a better term. In an effort to protect vulnerable populations, censorship can shield groups like minors from harmful content. For instance, the UK's Online Safety Act empowers Ofcom to sanction platforms that fail to remove illegal content, including child sexual abuse material and content promoting suicide. The law passed in October 2023, requires service providers to remove any harmful content deemed illegal from their platforms (Poireault, 2025). In the US, censorship is used as a means to curb the spread of false information. Debates around the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) highlight efforts to protect children from harmful online content, though critics argue it may lead to overreach (Feiner, 2024). Even though the idea of censorship is there to protect against harmful content, there are those who argue how this goes against individuals right to freedom of expression and highlight the fact that moves like this can lead to the abuse of powers by governments.
Generally, internet providers should not be held liable for user-generated content to protect freedom of expression and innovation. In the U.S., Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act provides immunity to online platforms from liability for third-party content. However, this protection has been subject to debate and potential reform. In China however, internet providers are subject to strict regulations and can be held liable for hosting banned content, especially politically sensitive material, and in the UK, The Online Safety Act holds platforms accountable for failing to remove illegal content, imposing significant fines for non-compliance.
While censorship can protect users from harmful content, it also poses risks to freedom of expression. A balanced approach that safeguards individuals without infringing on fundamental rights is essential. Regarding liability, holding internet providers accountable can encourage proactive content moderation but must be carefully implemented to avoid stifling innovation and free speech.