Content moderation: outline

The chapter gives a general introduction to the literature and discussions about content moderation. It explains the basic trade-offs and criticism of content moderation activities as performed by platforms. After introducing the foundations of the Digital Services Act as a legal framework, the chapter reacts to the criticism associated with due process regulation that focuses on individual disputes. Namely, the chapter answers questions, such as why due process rights are necessary and socially useful, and why the regulation is a net benefit, despite imposing compliance costs on the industry. The chapter also reacts to the criticism that the Digital Services Act only cements the status quo of privatised enforcement, instead of shifting the disputes to the courts.