Argument: Justification for the Prohibition of TikTok

Rene-Philippe Dubout examines the issues related to TikTok, censorship, and global criticism of the application, which boasts over a billion active users in 150 countries.

Image courtesy of Dado Ruvic/Reuters

TikTok is experiencing its "crocodile tears" phase. TikTok is exhibiting feigned worry and "sorrow" in reaction to the criticism and obstacles it presently encounters, particularly around content moderation, data privacy, and the platform's influence on youth and political discourse. This article addresses the ethical implications of permitting TikTok unrestricted access globally while China safeguards its young from analogous content hazards. It contests China's criticism of worldwide reactions to TikTok, including the infringement of free speech, in light of its own repressive domestic rules on freedom of expression.

Expressions of remorse, worry, or attempts to address these concerns may not stem from a real desire for change or consumer protection, but rather serve as a deliberate maneuver to alleviate criticism, regulatory scrutiny, or to preserve its user base and market position.

The shepherd's response to the shepherdess

Image courtesy of Sopa Images/Lightrocket Via Getty Images (Forbes)

Microsoft, Google, and Instagram (a subsidiary of Meta Platforms, previously Facebook) operate under unique conditions in China, owing to the nation's rigorous internet rules and censorship mechanisms referred to as the "Great Firewall."

• Microsoft conducts operations in China, albeit with limitations and modifications to adhere to local regulations. Bing, Microsoft's search engine, is accessible in China, albeit its search results are subject to censorship. Microsoft provides its cloud services via a local partnership to adhere to Chinese rules.

  
  

• In 2010, Google substantially reduced its operations in China, relocating its search engine services to Hong Kong due to apprehensions regarding censorship and cyber-attacks. Presently, the majority of Google's services, such as its search engine and YouTube, are prohibited in China. Google retains certain business operations in China, including advertising sales and the development of Android and other software.

  
  

• Instagram was prohibited in China in 2014 amid the Hong Kong protests. Similar to numerous other Western social media networks, it is inaccessible in mainland China without employing VPNs or alternative techniques to bypass the Great Firewall.

Consequently, the actions of Congress are only retaliatory. No other information.

Detrimental TikTok versus Responsible TikTok

There exists a significant gap in content standards and governmental control between China's Douyin and the international TikTok platform. This theory posits that TikTok, being a product of the Chinese corporation ByteDance, may align with the goals of the Chinese government, particularly when contrasting the content and regulatory frameworks of Douyin and TikTok.

• Educational and Protective Measures in China: Douyin, catering to the Chinese market, complies rigorously with the content standards established by Chinese authorities. These standards guarantee stringent oversight of content for educational merit and suitability for younger audiences. The Chinese government's stringent regulation of digital content seeks to safeguard minors from perceived detrimental influences, such as TikTok, while promoting educational and beneficial material.

  
  

• Comparison with Global Content Issues: TikTok has encountered criticism internationally for the perceived spread of inadequately controlled content. This encompasses allegations of disseminating "trash" information. Videos deemed unproductive, detrimental, or unsuitable for younger viewers. Critics contend that this disparity indicates a double standard in ByteDance's content management for domestic vs international audiences, possibly revealing divergent goals or regulatory influences.

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TikTok serving the interests of the Chinese government

The claim that TikTok serves as an instrument of the Chinese government engages in wider discussions over the impact of state-linked enterprises on international platforms.

Various governments have expressed concerns regarding the possible use of such platforms for soft power projection, spying, or disseminating content that may influence public opinion or erode societal standards. These apprehensions are exacerbated by the ambiguous nature of content moderation procedures and the legislative frameworks within which these corporations function.

The disparity in content quality and regulatory standards between Douyin and TikTok prompts critical inquiries over the obligations of global technology firms in protecting users, particularly children, from detrimental content. The problem highlights the difficulties societies encounter in regulating the influence of digital platforms on public discourse, youth development, and national security.

The Chinese government can limit the local version of TikTok to save its children, adolescents, and populace from detrimental content, yet it should be permitted to inundate us with its undesirable material? The Chinese government should operate a complete version of TikTok in China prior to criticizing the situation in the USA.

Awakening Perception

Image courtesy of Sopa Images/Lightrocket Via Getty Images (Forbes)

China's TikTok possesses no authority to impart lessons regarding freedom of speech. While TikTok may provide entertainment, it is not beneficial to us. China's TikTok disseminates detrimental content; it is hoped that all Western democracies would emulate the actions of the US Congress. Please feel free to reach out if you have thoughts on why TikTok warrants a ban.