1. I trust my own ability to discern good information from misinformation than I do our system of checks aNd balances.
Again, I trust our system of checks and balances. I trust if there is unconstitutional overreach on the part of the executive branch, the judicial branch will check it.
I really can't comment on your ability to discern good information from misinformation.
2. I don’t think anyone has argued or even intimated that free speech under the 1st Amendment is absolute and unlimited.
Perhaps it hasn't been argued on this board (I haven't read all the threads related to free speech). However, in conversations about free speech, the concept of a right to unlimited freedom of speech is often a false presupposition that some start with to argue against any government action related to free speech.
The fact that we don't have a right to unlimited freedom of speech is a very important principle to remember as we approach the issue of misinformation and the threat it presents to our country, especially misinformation from foreign entities that wish to attack our country. That is why I mentioned this principle and why I believe it must remain in the forefront when approaches to combatting misinformation is discussed.
3. They’re going to continue such attacks and such attacks have occurred in international geopolitics since the beginning. Our government engages in the same behavior internationally with our foreign adversaries. Then reference #1. I’m fine with our government giving me counter-responses with what they believe is or choose to promote as accurate information. I’m not fine with governmental censorship on the claimed basis that speech is foreign attempts at influence or foreign misinformation.
Yes, they are going to continue such attacks and that is why we must be prepared to combat it. Our government must be proactive in seeking to stop misinformation campaigns from foreign entities. We also face challenges in this regard that we have not always faced since the beginning. This is not 1790 nor is it 1890. We must respond to this threat within the context of the world we live in today, while also holding true to our values. Both can be done.
As for what you are fine with, I understand your position. I've stated my position as well. I believe we can both protect freedom of speech and also counter misinformation in an effective manner.
I welcome the creation of this board and believe it is a step in the right direction. We must do more to counter misinformation, especially when it arises from foreign entities that wish to harm us. And I have faith that within our system of governance, we can counter misinformation while also honoring our values.
