In this episode, we sit down with Nico Perrino, a leading advocate for free speech and individual rights, currently serving at the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE). Nico shares his views on the increasing government control over digital speech, the role of social media, and how misinformation and disinformation are shaping our society. We dive deep into the debate around censorship, the dangers of having a "Ministry of Truth," and the future implications of AI on free speech. Whether it’s the growing concerns about misinformation or the battle between government intervention and freedom of expression, Nico gives us a fresh perspective on navigating these complex issues. Tune in to hear about the parallels between historical moments of technological change and today's digital challenges, and why timeless principles of free speech remain more relevant than ever.
TIMESTAMPS
0:00 Intro
2:46 Nico Perino: Free Speech Advocate Introduction
3:17 Social Media Misinformation & AI Concerns
7:14 Debating 1984 & Ministry of Truth
11:49 Misinformation, Fractured Sources, & Consensus
16:36 John Kerry on Governance & Free Speech
21:56 Fractured Truth: Media Referees & COVID
23:26 Morlocks Trap: Conspiracy Theories and Control
24:23 Misinformation Amplified by Algorithms & Bias
32:56 AI as a Tool for Finding Truth
36:59 Misinformation vs. Disinformation
39:58 The Pavel Durov Case
46:50 Comparing Telegram & Apple Encryption Cases
48:05 Brazil's Ban on X & VPN Penalties
52:58 Balkanization of the Internet and Free Speech
56:10 UK Online Safety Act
59:46 Global Misinformation Laws: Australia to U.S.
1:08:00 Government's Role in Protecting Free Speech
1:12:50 Bottom-Up Solutions for Truth & Speech
1:20:23 Inevitability of Censorship's Failures
1:22:33 Advancing Free Speech
1:23:01 Closing & Disclaimers
RESOURCES
Nico Perrino
https://x.com/NicoPerrino
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