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by 1787 2965 days ago
Discussion groups in small private spaces are a somewhat related but clearly and justifiably different issue from huge kinda-sorta-maybe-public fora like YouTube. Trying to conflate the two will probably just lead to confusion and muddle the discussion.

To continue playing the analogy game, let's say you run a bible study group in your home. Somebody comes in and advocates for free (homosexual) love - do you have the right to ask this person to leave? Obviously. But what does that say about YouTube's rights? Or more importantly, half leaving aside the question of rights, about what they really should do in a robust free society?
1 comments
ucaetano 2964 days ago
No, you have to define if YT is a public forum like a public square, or if it is a private community that can set it's own rules.

You can't have it both ways, or pick the definition that you prefer each time. It has to be one or the other.

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iamnothere 2964 days ago
False dichotomy. It obviously isn't like either one; not a purely public forum, and not an intimate private gathering.

The notion of semi-public space (shopping malls, sidewalks, right of way) has been around for a long time and is continuing to evolve. The laws and precedent on this are not fixed in place, nor should they be, especially as more of our public participation moves online.

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ucaetano 2964 days ago
Sure, and all of those spaces are free to set usage policies. So there is plenty of precedent for kicking someone out.

What are you proposing? It seems that everyone comes shy of actually proposing something.

Are you saying that online communities/forums should not be allowed to have and enforce a content/behavior policy?

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