Forcing digital platforms to pay for news content they link to represents an attack on a fundamental principle on which the Internet was built.
Publications
February 26, 2021
February 25, 2021
ITIF argued innovation is critical to combat climate change, making three core points: First, greater federal investment in innovation is essential to address climate change and boost U.S. competitiveness in clean energy. Second, prioritize funding to RD&D and deployment programs around 10 critical decarbonization needs. Third, diversify the innovation portfolio to maximize the effectiveness of federal investments.
February 24, 2021
Two Pitfalls Lawmakers Must Avoid in House Antitrust Subcommittee Hearings on “Reviving Competition”
The House Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Commercial and Administrative Law kicks off a series of hearings this week that should focus first and foremost on ensuring that antitrust fosters consumer welfare. They should evaluate large technology platforms on a single question: Is what they are doing good for average Americans, while not engaging in clearly anticompetitive conduct?
February 23, 2021
If the goal is to improve the working conditions and benefits of lower-wage workers, then instead of targeting the big firms that actually treat their employees better than small firms, Chairman Sanders would be best advised to focus on pursuing his goal of a $15 minimum wage.
February 22, 2021
In the ongoing debate over whether and how to amend Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, it is important to understand the law’s origins, meaning, and impact—because, for better or worse, it has shaped the modern Internet.
February 22, 2021
Courts have generally interpreted Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act broadly, but they have identified some limits for when the law does not provide immunity from liability.
February 22, 2021
Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act has become a key battleground in the larger debate over free speech and content moderation. There are legitimate and illegitimate critiques about it—but they don’t negate the law’s many benefits.
February 22, 2021
As the United States debates potential reforms to Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, it is important to understand and evaluate the alternative approaches that other countries have taken to intermediary liability.
February 22, 2021
In the wide-ranging debate over Section 230, there have been calls to keep the law as it is, repeal it entirely, or reform it. The best approach would be for Congress to pass targeted reforms that address specific harms without unduly burdening online services.
February 22, 2021
When domestic firms collaborate with foreign firms, domestic firms can benefit from knowledge spillovers, which has the potential to improve their performance. This is especially important if the domestic firm is in a developing country, as it allows the firm to “catch up” to world leaders, which boosts economic growth.