Oddbean new post about | logout
 Moderation is a double-edged sword. Once in place, expectations change from Users, pundits, and law enforcement alike.

In the era of mega states where their ability to coerce increases over time, it is inevitable that they will burden operators to the point the task becomes infeasible.

He acknowledges here that tech can be used for good and evil, something that the cypherpunks knew well. What the cypherpunks didn’t do though was bow to the State - they were always seeking to flow around them. The minute you start working with them (which be proudly did likely due to the shit he suffered as a kid and not wanting that pain for others) you are doomed to be their servant.

I understand people’s tolerance for things is different. My preference for complete openness online means I accept that I’m gonna see stuff which is horrible and that I don’t want to see, and others will prefer that stuff be moderated before hitting their feed. 

That later camp really needs to consider the implications of moderation outside of just their own feelings if they want services to survive. 

Once you accept the scorpion on your back, don’t be surprised when it stings you half way across the river.